New Delhi Advises Indians to Avoid Protest Zones in Europe

India has issued a safety advisory for its citizens in France, Italy and Belgium, asking them to stay vigilant and keep away from areas affected by protests. The advisory comes as demonstrations in several European countries continue to draw crowds and, in some places, turn volatile.

Speaking at the fortnightly media briefing in New Delhi on Friday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Indian embassies in the three countries are closely following the situation. They are also staying in regular contact with the Indian community, he said.

Jaiswal stressed that Indian nationals in locations where protests are happening should take necessary precautions while going out. They should avoid places where demonstrations are underway and follow the local guidelines issued by the respective governments.

He added that the Indian embassies in France and Italy have also released advisories for their citizens, which must be observed. The government, he said, remains dedicated to the welfare and safety of Indians living abroad.

On Wednesday, the Indian Embassy in France had already issued a travel and security advisory. It cautioned citizens and travellers visiting the Western European nation to remain careful, as protests against rising inflation had escalated into violent clashes.

The unrest first emerged in late September over poor school conditions and a shortage of teachers. It soon widened into a broader anti-government movement, driven by rising prices, costlier fuel, cuts in public sector budgets and criticism of President Emmanuel Macron's administration.

Amid recent developments and local curfews, the Indian Embassy in France asked citizens to stay alert and take appropriate care. It recommended avoiding large gatherings and crowded areas where protests are taking place, and urged them to follow instructions from local French authorities.