MEA Issues Safety Advisory for Indians in France and Italy Amid Protests
By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday advised Indian nationals living in France and Italy, including students, to remain alert and follow the safety advisories issued by Indian embassies and local authorities amid ongoing protests in the two European countries.
Indian embassies have urged nationals to avoid crowded areas, stay away from demonstrations and follow local authorities’ safety instructions, MEA said.
According to the media reports, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said this during the weekly media briefing in New Delhi.
“Regarding the disturbances and ongoing protests in Europe, our Embassies in France and Italy have issued advisories,” Jaiswal said.
He said Indian nationals, including students residing in these countries, had been advised to follow the instructions issued by Indian embassies and local authorities.
The Indian Embassy in France had issued a travel and safety advisory after protests over the rising cost of living turned violent, leading to clashes.
The Embassy urged Indian nationals and travelers to remain alert, particularly in crowded areas and places where demonstrations were taking place.
It also warned that protests and civil unrest had led to localized curfews and could cause delays or disruptions to road travel and public transport.
The Embassy in a post on X, advised Indians to avoid large gatherings, follow instructions issued by French authorities and check with airlines or travel agencies for possible changes in travel schedules.
The Embassy of India in Rome had also issued an advisory asked Indian nationals in Italy to remain cautious.
“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 said in a post on X.
The advisory came after clashes were reported in several Italian cities. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said stones were thrown at law enforcement personnel in Milan, leaving several officers injured.
In Bologna, unrest led to the precautionary closure of the railway station, media reported.
