Chennai: In a powerful display of solidarity, thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Chennai on Friday, voicing vehement opposition to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the devastating impact on Gaza. The rally, organized by the group ‘Periyar Consciousness’, saw participation from a wide cross-section of political leaders, social activists, and film industry celebrities, all united in their condemnation of the violence and their support for the people of Palestine.
The demonstration highlighted the growing global dissent against the conflict, which has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians. Prominent figures including Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan, acclaimed actor Sathyaraj, and National Award-winning director Vetrimaran were at the forefront, addressing the gathered crowds and amplifying calls for international accountability.
Leaders Decry “Genocide” and Accuse US-Israel of “Real Estate Conspiracy”
Speakers at the event unanimously labeled Israel’s military offensive in Gaza as a “genocide,” accusing it of systematically targeting innocent civilians, including children, women, and the elderly. A central and recurring allegation from the podium was that the United States, by providing unwavering support to Israel, is complicit in a larger conspiracy to depopulate Gaza for commercial gain.
“The survival of the people of Gaza is in question today. Israel’s actions of killing innocent people must be condemned. The US is conspiring to turn Gaza into a real estate center by siding with Israel,” Thirumavalavan said. This sentiment was echoed by Muslim leader Jawahirullah, who invoked the legacy of social reformer Periyar, stating, “Periyar’s rod will tilt the hegemonic politics of America. The conspiracy of Israel-America will not be fulfilled until the people of the world stand on the side of the people of Gaza.”
A Call for India to Reassess Foreign Policy
The rally also served as a platform to critique the Indian government’s stance on the conflict. VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan made a direct appeal for a shift in India’s diplomatic position. “The Indian government should reconsider its foreign policy. It should not condone human rights violations but should raise a strong voice in support of the people of Gaza,” he urged, arguing for a foreign policy more explicitly grounded in human rights principles.
The visual and auditory elements of the protest were stark. Participants carried graphic banners and photographs depicting the suffering in Gaza, making the human cost of the war unmistakably clear. The air resonated with chants of “The people of Gaza want freedom” and “The US-Israeli cruelty must stop.” Organizers shared grim statistics, claiming that approximately 65,000 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip, a majority of whom are reported to be children and other non-combatants. The rally’s central message against the violence and its devastating civilian toll.