Kathmandu— Several DMK cadres protested across Tamil Nadu on Thursday, staging road blockades and rallies outside Madras High Court to demand the release of their leader Udhayanidhi Stalin, who was arrested over alleged derogatory remarks. Former minister P Geetha Jeevan and other party workers were detained during a protest near Thoothukudi's old bus stand, while similar scenes unfolded in Ranipet and Pollachi.

Arrest of Udhayanidhi Stalin

Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Leader of Opposition in Tamil Nadu, was arrested by Thanjavur East Police under multiple sections including BNS and IT Act. The arrest came after he allegedly made derogatory remarks during a public address on the Cauvery water dispute. However, Stalin denied making any such comments, stating that edited content had been circulated to create controversy.

Protests Across Tamil Nadu

DMK workers and supporters staged protests in several parts of Tamil Nadu following Stalin's arrest. In Thoothukudi, former minister P Geetha Jeevan led a road blockade protest near the old bus stand, where she was detained along with other party members. Similarly, in Ranipet district, DMK workers protested near Muthukadai Bus Stand under the leadership of former minister R Gandhi.

During these protests, demonstrators alleged that Stalin's arrest was politically motivated and demanded his immediate release. A brief scuffle broke out between protesters and police personnel as the latter moved to detain them.

The DMK has vowed not to bow down to what it perceives as political oppression, with party workers continuing to protest across Tamil Nadu.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.