India protests: At least three people reportedly killed following clashes with police

Three people have died in India with more than 1,200 people detained for defying bans on demonstrations.

Arrests took place in several of the nation’s big cities as rallies continue a week on against what campaigners have called a bigoted new law.

Police were accused of using excessive force as they try to clamp down on the protests.

The disputed citizenship amendment act entitles non-muslims who are in the country illegally, to citizenship if they can prove they face religious persecution in Muslim-majority Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

It applies to Hindus, Christians and other religious minorities, but not Muslims.

Protesters say the law is anti-muslim, may cause mass migration and it is an attempt by prime minister Narenda Modi to make India a Hindu stronghold.

However, prime minister, Narenda Modi says it is a humanitarian gesture.