Many of them held hand-written posters and waved Indian flags. Some gave fiery speeches.
Unlike Saturday's equally massive protests, many middle-aged also poured in Sunday, urging the government to amend laws so that rapists get heavier punishment.
The violence subsided after some 90 minutes of running battles during which crowds charged at security forces around India Gate and retreated in the face of tear gas and batons.
"We hope these protests wake up the government," said Rakesh Kumar, a businessman in south Delhi who was at the site with his wife and two young daughters.
The younger protesters were more militant and angry.
Pallavi, a 25-year-old working for a multinational, told IANS: "The government is sleeping... The law against rape must be stronger and should be implemented properly."
Delhi University student Hemant said the protests would continue "until we are assured that girls are safe in Delhi".
The foggy and chilly Sunday began on a quiet note at the protest venue, with only a small group who had spent the night present. By early morning, crowds began to pour in, shouting slogans.
