Congress stages black flag protests across central districts against Modi’s visit

Members of the Congress party staged black flag protests across several central districts on Sunday, opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the State

Members of the Congress party staged black flag protests across several central districts on Sunday, opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the State.

Protesters criticised Mr. Modi’s visit to Rameswaram, calling it politically insensitive because of the Centre’s “neglect” of Tamil Nadu over the past decade. Congress members condemned the recently passed Wakf Board Amendment Bill, arguing that it undermined minority rights. Further, the party accused the Centre of consistently denying Tamil Nadu adequate policy support and fund allocation.

In Tiruchi, a protest was held in front of the BSNL office, led by City District Congress president L. Rex. Black flags were waved and slogans raised against the Prime Minister’s visit. A separate balloon protest was organised by the North District Congress unit under its president Kalai.

In Thanjavur, party South District president T. Krishnasamy Vandaiyar led a protest near the Head Post Office while another demonstration was held at Keelavasal under City president P.G. Rajendran. Both groups denounced the Centre’s policies and demanded greater support for the State.

In Mayiladuthurai, district president and MLA S. Rajakumar led a black flag protest in front of the Head Post Office.

In Nagapattinam, district president Amirtharaja led a symbolic boat protest, attempting to sail to Rameswaram in defiance of the Prime Minister’s visit. Earlier in the day, a black flag protest was held in front of the Income Tax Office. Protesters were later detained by the police.