Chennai (PTI): With fears of moral policing on the back of their minds, Cupid-struck couples on Thursday celebrated Valentine's Day on a low-key in the city and other parts of Tamil Nadu while right wing groups mocked the day by "solemnising" a dog wedding.

The Marina Beach here, a known haven for lovers, in a marked contrast to previous years saw a low presence of couples despite assurances from city Police Commissioner G Nanchil Kumaran that there would be no "unnecessary poking into human relationships".

But apparently, this year's Valentine's Day lacked the usual glitter as police in recent past had gone on a drive rounding up couples from different public places, including the Marina.

Kumaran who said the police would not launch an unnecessary crack down, added that action would be taken against those who violate law and order.

Right-wing groups protested against the day, which they term a intrusion of Western values into Indian culture.

At Nagercoil, the Hindu Maha Jana Sabha made a mockery of the day by arranging a "wedding" of two dogs.

The "ceremony" ended with the "groom" tying the nuptial knot around the "bride's" neck.

In Madurai too, various protests against Valentine's Day celebrations were held.

An attempt to burn effigies of "Man and Woman" by Thevar Thesiya Manram was foiled by police, who arrested 17 members of the association.