Rome: The Indian Embassy in Italy has asked Indian nationals to stay careful and avoid crowded places after protests in some Italian cities turned violent, agencies reported.
In an advisory posted on X on Monday, the Embassy said demonstrations were held in several cities last week. It asked Indians living in or visiting Italy to stay away from protest sites and follow local news.
“There were protests and demonstrations last week in some Italian cities. We advise Indian nationals to exercise caution, avoid crowded areas and locations where protests are taking place and follow local news about such events,” the embassy stated on X.
The advisory came after clashes during protests over the rising cost of living in cities including Milan, Turin and Bologna. Some protests led to violence, with police clashing with demonstrators and shops being damaged in some areas.
Meloni Condemns Violence
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned those who used the protests to create trouble. She said police personnel had faced violence from criminals and organised groups.
“Once again, the women and men of the law enforcement forces have had to face the violence of criminals who, even through organised groups, exploit demonstrations to seek confrontation and sow chaos,” Meloni stated on X.
“To all of them goes my full solidarity and sincere thanks. Because they were there to safeguard the safety of citizens, workers, merchants, and all the people who have the right to live their city without fear and without seeing it laid to waste and set ablaze by gangs of thugs. We stand with you,” she added.
Right To Protest
Meloni also said peaceful protesters should be respected. She referred to those who joined the demonstration called by the CGIL trade union.
“I have great respect for the thousands of people who today demonstrated peacefully, including those who took part in the mobilisation called by the CGIL, which also saw the participation of left-wing leaders. Whatever the ideas for which one demonstrates, participation is the foundation of any healthy democracy,” she said.
She said stones were thrown at police in Milan and some officers were injured.
In Turin, authorities stopped people carrying cobblestones and hammers used to break windows. In Bologna, the railway station was closed as a safety measure after trouble broke out.
“Thugs who exploit demonstrations to sow chaos, attack those who ensure security, and hold entire cities hostage,” she said.
“Demonstrating is a right. Setting our cities ablaze is not,” Meloni said.
The Prime Minister asked opposition parties to clearly condemn the violence and appeal to protesters to remain peaceful.
The protests in Italy took place alongside similar nationwide demonstrations in France over high living costs and student grievances.
