India on alert after France unrest, issues advisory for its citizens

New Delhi: India is also on alert regarding the ongoing protests in France. An advisory was issued for Indian citizens on Wednesday, advising them to remain vigilant. Following recent violent protests and looting in France, Paris police announced a new curfew in some areas from Wednesday night until Thursday morning. France has witnessed large-scale protests in recent days over several issues, including inflation.

The Indian Embassy in France issued an advisory, stating, "Advisory for Indian citizens residing in and traveling to France. In light of the current situation and local curfews, please remain vigilant and exercise caution. Avoid places of protest and crowds, and follow the instructions of local authorities." It also said, 'Stay informed through local news, check https://gouvernement.fr for official updates and check for any disruptions in public transport (https://ratp.fr).'

Helpline number also released

Emergency phone numbers have also been issued. The Embassy in Paris is contacted at +33 6 48 34 00 63 and cons.paris@mea.gov.in. The Consulate General of India in Marseille is contacted at +33 7 43 16 25 59 and cgo.marseille@mea.gov.in.

Protests reach Greece

The protests against rising inflation in several European countries reached Greece on Wednesday. Thousands of students and teachers took to the streets in the capital Athens to protest against the government. The protesters were protesting rising inflation, rising expenses, and cuts to the education budget. During this period, there were scuffles between protesters and police. The youth are protesting the government's budget allocations and cuts to the education sector. They are also angry at the decision to increase registration fees and fees for higher education and universities.

Violent clashes erupt in Albania

Police fired tear gas and used water cannons in the Albanian capital, Tirana, on the eighth day of protests as students demanded lower tuition fees and increased government investment in education.

Large-scale protests continue in these European countries as well

Apart from Greece, similar large-scale protests have been seen in France, Italy, Portugal and Albania, apart from Belgium, over inflation and education reforms.

Macron furious at Trump

French President Emmanuel Macron claimed on Wednesday that foreign leaders were trying to exploit France's tense social climate for their own political agendas. In fact, US President Donald Trump had said, "Close your borders and take control before it's too late."

Macron responded that following the looting in Paris and other French cities last weekend, "misinformation has been spread abroad." He said, "This has led to comments from many people, including foreign leaders, that are as unacceptable as they are absurd." When a journalist asked Macron whether he was referring to Trump, the president did not give a direct answer.