France Protests Turn Violent: Indian Embassy Warns Nationals to Avoid Crowded Areas

The Indian embassies in France and Italy have urged Indian nationals to remain vigilant, avoid protest-hit areas and follow local authorities’ instructions amid violent demonstrations and curfews

Post Published By: Sreeja Chowdhury
Updated : 22 October 2026, 10:19 AM IST

New Delhi: The Indian Embassy located in Paris has released a safety advisory for Indian nationals in France, urging them to remain vigilant, avoid protest-hit areas and follow local authorities instructions amid violent demonstrations and security restrictions.

Embassy Advises Indians to Avoid Crowded And Protest-hit Areas

In an advisory issued on Wednesday evening, the embassy cautioned Indian citizens about the prevailing situation and localised curfews in parts of France.

“In view of the recent developments and localised curfews imposed in France, please remain vigilant and exercise due caution,” the advisory stated.

Indian nationals have been advised to keep away from demonstration sites, avoid large gatherings and monitor official announcements for possible disruptions to transport services across French cities.

Also Read: Night curfews announced in several French cities after demonstrations over rising living costs turned violent

The embassy also shared emergency contact details for Indians requiring assistance. Citizens can reach the Embassy of India in Paris at +33 6 48 34 00 63 or email cons.paris@mea.gov.in.

France Witnesses Unrest Over Cost of Living And Public Services

France has experienced widespread unrest linked to rising living costs, declining public services and concerns over education. Incidents of arson, looting and clashes with police have been reported in Paris, Marseille, Lyon and other cities.

Moreover , Students have raised concerns over inadequate school funding, poor infrastructure and staff shortages, particularly in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Questions have also been raised about lengthy school days and the fairness of the university admissions process.

Also Read: Marco Rubio Calls ‘UN Experts’ an ‘Oxymoron’, Says India’s Protest Row Is Domestic Matter

Although France has experienced two consecutive nights of relative calm following the weekend violence, curfews remain in effect in some areas of major cities, including parts of Paris.

More Protests Planned, Security Tightened

Further demonstrations were expected on Thursday and Saturday, following calls by student unions and groups associated with the Yellow Vest movement, which sparked major unrest over fuel prices in 2018 and 2019.

Paris police announced a ban on a demonstration planned for Thursday, citing public safety concerns and the risk of property damage.

Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin said 174 people among approximately 2,500 detained during and after the unrest had been jailed, while another 917 had been formally prosecuted.

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu also announced plans for a major security deployment on Saturday to prevent renewed violence.

Indian Embassy in Italy Also Issues Advisory

Earlier in the week, the Indian Embassy in Italy had issued a similar warning amid protests over the cost of living and inadequate public services, advising Indian nationals to avoid crowded places and monitor local news.

Location :  New Delhi

Published :  22 October 2026, 10:19 AM IST