Chennai, May 22 (IANS): Activists of a Tamil fringe group on Monday staged protests near actor Rajinikanth's residence at Poes Garden here over indications the veteran actor could make his political debut.

Police deployed a large number of security personnel near his residence after the protest announcement by the Tamizhar Munnetra Padai group.

The police have set up barricades on the roads leading to his residence. Vehicles were allowed only after proper checking. 
Police stopped the activists from trying to march to the actor's residence.

"Following reports that members of a fringe group were planning to protest in front of Rajinikanth's house, we requested for police protection. Everything is under control as of now," a source close to Rajinikanth told IANS.

One of the protesters said Rajinikanth is from Karnataka and should not enter Tamil Nadu politics.

The protest comes after Rajinikanth, while addressing his fan club members here last week, had hinted about his political aspirations. The actor was criticised over his not being a Tamilian. 

The 67-year-old has expressed disappointment over some Tamilians spreading hatred on social media.

"I feel sorry for some Tamil people spreading hatred on social media. Never thought they will stoop so low," Rajinikanth had said last week during an interaction with fans.

His comment irked members of Tamizhar Munnetra Padai, who demand an apology.

The actor has insisted that he is very much a Tamilian.

"I lived in Karnataka for 23 years and in Tamil Nadu for 43 years. Although I came as a Marathi from Karnataka, you people nurtured me, made me a true Tamilian," he said.

He has said he will take a decision on joining politics when the time comes.