Washermenpet protests enter Day 12 amid violence in Delhi

“Women have come to the protest because our presence makes it clear to the government that this is an issue that affects all of us. This Act is unconstitutional because we all are Indian citizens who deserve to remain in our country,” said a woman protestor.

Dubbed as Chennai’s Shaheen Bagh, the protests call for the repeal of the CAA and the State government’s stand on the NPR and NRC. The protest also condemns the “police violence” that took place at Washermanpet on February 14, which led to the death of a 70-year-old man, following a stampede.

Despite the over ten-day-long protests, the protesters have not let up. Food and water have been organised for them, and many women explained that they have taken to shifts to ensure that the household chores are attended to.

“What has happened at Delhi is a terrible thing. We have the right to protest as per the law. This is a peaceful, sitting protests as well. We hope that this is taken into consideration by the authorities,” said Fathima Begum, another protester.