From Financialexpress · Ashima Grover · · 1m 20s
France student protests escalate
Over 1,200 arrested as historic buildings burn in France student riots.
In brief
Over 1,200 arrested as historic buildings burn in France student riots. French student protests against rising living costs and public service cuts escalated to violent clashes, with historic buildings torched and over 1,200 arrests. Originally reported by Financialexpress.
Violent clashes in France
Violent clashes erupted across France as protests against rising living costs and declining public services intensified.
Over 1,200 arrests reported
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said over 1,200 people were arrested and more than 150 police officers got injured.
Interior Minister's figures
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez previously disclosed 400 arrests, with 110 nationwide marches drawing about 550,000 people.
Student protest surge
Far-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon joined protests in Paris, backing the high school students movement.
Protesters' scale
Organizers reported about 800,000 protesters took the streets across french cities.
Historic buildings torched
Lyon’s tourism office and limoges city hall were set on fire, causing significant heritage damage.
Police response
Police used tear gas and water cannons to control protests, shutting down metro stations near government buildings.
Injuries and allegations
Over 30 allegations of police violence against protesters were investigated, including reports of children being 'mutilated'.
President Macron's response
President Emmanuel Macron vowed prosecution for those vandalizing property and attacking government offices.
The short version
French student protests against rising living costs and public service cuts escalated to violent clashes, with historic buildings torched and over 1,200 arrests.
