CHENNAI: St Valentine’s Day passed off peacefully in the city with no major violent protests.
However, 15 members of the Bharat Hindu Munnani were arrested by the Pulianthope police for protesting the celebration of the day and for marrying off a pair of dogs, claiming this day to be an unwarranted influence of Western culture.
The Hindu Makkal Katchi and another Muslim outfit distributed pamphlets at the Marina beach opposing the day. Meanwhile, on February 12, two fringe parties - Sri Ram Sena Tamilnadu and Kandar Sena - filed a petition with the city Police Commissioner, warning couples of dire consequences if they were found celebrating the Valentine’s Day.
A senior police officer said that no special police force was deployed in the city. But regular teams were on patrol duty. Places like Marina, Elliot’s beach and areas like Pulianthope were under surveillance.