Chennai: Kollywood's superstar, and politician Rajinikanth, has said that the NPR is an essential process. He was talking to the reporters in Chennai on Wednesday. "NPR is an essential process. The Congress had performed it in 2010 and 2015. Is it not necessary to find out how many foreigners live here and collect details of our own citizens? We have to complete the process in 2020 too. I'm not sure why people have an issue with it." said Rajinikanth. Talking about the NCR next, Rajinikanth pointed out that NCR was not yet introduced. "It is only in the pipeline. Once that comes out, we have to take a look at the draft to be able to figure out exactly what it entails."

"As for the CAA, the central government has clarified that CAA will not affect Indian Muslims. The question is only about whether citizenship should be granted to the people from other countries," said Rajini.

He went on to note that the Muslims of India have been told that it will affect them, as a result of which there are protests. It was merely a comment spread by people with vested interests, said the star. "During the time of partition, many Muslims had left India and relocated to Pakistan. Those who stayed behind are the Muslims who thought, 'this is our motherland. We have to stay here, in life and in death.' How can such people and their successor be thrown out of the country? If it comes to that, I, Rajinikanth, would be the first one to raise voice for them." said the superstar.

The comments have already garnered a response online. Most Anti-CAA supporters professed their disappointment on social media and by afternoon, the hashtag #SanghiRajini was trending on Twitter. At least for the past three days, the only trending hashtag concerning Rajinikanth was #RajiniforCM. Talking further, Rajinikanth cut through a question about the Sri Lankan Tamils to finish an appeal to the youngsters of the country.

"The fears are being spread by political parties who have vested interests. The youngsters should consult their parents, talk to teachers and other elders before joining any protests as the politicians may misuse them otherwise." He further warned that if they end up being named in an FIR, it would affect their future. When asked about what he thought about the exclusion of Sri Lankans - who were also religiously prosecuted - from CAA, he noted that the people in Sri Lanka have been staying there since the Chola times.

"They should not be disturbed" commented Rajinikanth, further adding that the Sri Lankan refugees who have been living here for about thirty years now, should be given rights. Rajinikanth had voiced his concerns earlier at the conception of the anti-CAA protests. "Violence and rioting should not become a way to find a solution for any issue. I request the people of India to stay united and vigilant keeping in mind the nation's security and welfare," Rajinikanth had said.