Paris, Oct 22:
The Indian Embassy in Paris has advised Indian nationals living in France and those planning to travel there to remain vigilant amid protests, clashes and localised curfews following unrest over rising living costs and public services.
In its advisory, the embassy urged Indians to avoid large gatherings and areas where demonstrations were taking place. It also asked them to follow instructions issued by French authorities and remain alert to local security updates.
France has witnessed violence in cities including Paris, Marseille and Lyon, with demonstrations escalating into looting, arson and clashes with police. The protests have been fuelled by concerns over rising prices, education and dissatisfaction with public services.
More than 2,500 people were taken into custody following the violence, French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin said. Authorities have imposed localised curfews in affected areas as they seek to prevent further disturbances.
The unrest has also triggered a political dispute between French President Emmanuel Macron and US President Donald Trump. Trump blamed France’s immigration policies for the violence, drawing a sharp response from Macron.
Speaking during a visit to Qatar on Wednesday, Macron criticised foreign leaders for using the unrest for political purposes. He described their comments as “as unacceptable as they are stupid” and confirmed that Trump was among those he was referring to.
The exchange has added an international dimension to France’s domestic tensions, with the two leaders differing over the causes of the unrest and the role of immigration policy.
The Indian Embassy’s advisory is aimed at helping Indian citizens avoid areas where violence could occur. Nationals have been urged to monitor announcements from local authorities, exercise caution while travelling and comply with any movement restrictions imposed in their areas.