Arrest of Venezuelan president: CPM bid to hold protest near US consulate I Chennai foiled; 120 arrested

CHENNAI: A group of CPM party members held a protest near the US Consulate in Chennai on Monday, condemning the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the United States.The protest, led by CPM state functionary G Ramakrishnan, former Maduravoyal MLA Bheema Rao, and Central Chennai district president Selvam, was organised as part of a nationwide agitation announced by the party. The protesters attempted to march towards the US Consulate-General premises to register their condemnation. Anticipating the protest, police deployed heavy security in the area and prevented the demonstrators from proceeding. When the protesters blocked the road and staged a sit-in, police intervened and detained them. More than 120 CPM members were arrested and taken away in police buses, leading to brief traffic disruptions in the surrounding area.Ramakrishnan said the United States’ action against Venezuela amounted to an attack on the country’s sovereignty. He said the arrest of President Maduro and his wife, Celia Flores, was “highly condemnable.” He further stated that accusations of drug trafficking against the Venezuelan leadership were not proven and criticised the Govt of India for remaining silent on the issue.Police said the arrests were made to prevent law and order issues and to ensure the free movement of traffic in the area.