May 22, 2017
Activists of a Tamil fringe group on
Monday staged protests near actor Rajinikanth's residence at Poes
Garden here over indications the veteran actor could make his political
debut.
Police deployed a large number of security personnel near his residence
after the protest announcement by the Tamizhar Munnetra Padai group.
The police have set up barricades on the roads leading to his
residence. Vehicles were allowed only after proper checking.
Police stopped the activists from trying to march to the actor's
residence.
"Following reports that members of a fringe group were planning to
protest in front of Rajinikanth's house, we requested for police
protection. Everything is under control as of now," a source close to
Rajinikanth told IANS.
One of the protesters said Rajinikanth is from Karnataka and should not
enter Tamil Nadu politics.
The protest comes after Rajinikanth, while addressing his fan club
members here last week, had hinted about his political aspirations. The
actor was criticised over his not being a Tamilian.
The 67-year-old has expressed disappointment over some Tamilians
spreading hatred on social media.
"I feel sorry for some Tamil people spreading hatred on social media.
Never thought they will stoop so low," Rajinikanth had said last week
during an interaction with fans.
His comment irked members of Tamizhar Munnetra Padai, who demand an
apology.
The actor has insisted that he is very much a Tamilian.
"I lived in Karnataka for 23 years and in Tamil Nadu for 43 years.
Although I came as a Marathi from Karnataka, you people nurtured me,
made me a true Tamilian," he said.
He has said he will take a decision on joining politics when the time
comes.