The police tightened security around Marina beach and adjoining areas on Thursday, cordoning off key entry and exit points with iron barricades following reports that supporters of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) could gather there to stage protests over the delay in the formation of the government.

At least 50 police personnel and six patrol vehicles were deployed along Loop Road off Kamarajar Salai, while barricades were placed on roads leading to the beach. In the forenoon, the police dispersed small groups that had gathered near the area and asked the public to vacate the spot.

The TVK secured victory in 108 of the 234 Assembly constituencies in the elections held on April 23. Although party president C. Joseph Vijay submitted a list of 112 MLAs, including five from Congress, to Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar on Wednesday, he is yet to be invited to form the government.

A senior police officer said security had been strengthened at the beach area to prevent gatherings and ensure there were no law and order issues.