Stung by criticism over its moral policing against couples at Marina beach and other public places in Chennai, the city police on Friday sought to downplay its action and said it was targeting only "couples engaged in indecent acts."

"We have advised the officials to take action against couples behaving in an indecent manner and not to disturb others," said Chennai Police Commissioner G Nanchil Kumaran. He added that couples were most welcome to spend their time in a 'decent manner' at the Marina beach and other places.

Marina, one of the most popular spots in the city, has been sporting a deserted look for the past few days, following the police's action against the couples.

The police's vigilantism evoked strong protests, with many dubbing it as 'moral policing' and an 'invasion of privacy'