Chennai steps out in solidarity with Anna Hazare

Residents of Chennai came out on the streets on Friday to express solidarity with the ongoing fast of Anna Hazare in Delhi, protesting against corruption.

The response of Chennai's citizens took many forms right from late Thursday evening, with candlelight vigils, token fasts, sit-in protests, singing and much sloganeering. The hub of the day's activities was the premises of the Thakkar Bapa Vidyalaya in T.Nagar. It seemed as if the city was spontaneously reacting to the mobilisation for the Lok Pal Bill in Delhi, but the basic coordination work was done by members of the India Against Corruption, and Gandhian activists.

Prominent citizens of Chennai showed up and enthused the crowds with their exhortation against corruption in the country. Former Chief Electoral Officer Naresh Gupta was among the early speakers at Thakkar Bapa Vidyalaya. “This is a prayer meeting, not a fast. And we will continue here until there is a positive result in Delhi,” Mr. Gupta told the audience amidst cheers. “We should have positive thoughts, not malice or prejudice against anyone.”

Social activists, Gandhian followers, civil society leaders, students, young corporate executives, housewives, and senior citizens came and went, stopping to say they were part of the cause. There were others who waited nearly the whole day, singing and raising slogans to raise the morale of the protesters. Periodically, messages as to what was happening in Delhi vis-à-vis the government's response to Mr. Hazare's demands were communicated to the audience.

At Valluvar Kottam, some members of the Federation of Tamil Nadu Physically Handicapped Associations went on a token fast for a day to express solidarity with the cause. G. Chidambaranathan, president of the federation, said it was only to express solidarity with the move against corruption in India.

Meenakshi B. of Vidya Sagar said it made sense for the entire nation to continue various forms of protest until the issue is resolved amicably.

Some students of Asian College of Journalism took part in the event with a demonstration at Tidel Park.

Various groups came together and headed towards Gandhi Statue on the Marina, where a candlelight vigil was held in the evening, followed by singing of the national anthem.