Indian embassy in France asks nationals to stay vigilant amid violent protests, curfews

Indians have been asked to avoid large gatherings and crowded places where protests are taking place, and to follow instructions from French authorities.

The Indian Embassy in France on Wednesday asked Indian nationals living in or travelling to the country to remain vigilant, after cost-of-living protests turned violent and several cities imposed curfews. In a post on X, the embassy said that in view of the recent developments and localised curfews, people should remain vigilant and exercise due caution.

What the advisory says

• Indians have been asked to avoid large gatherings and crowded places where protests are taking place, and to follow instructions from French authorities.
• Residents and visitors should keep track of updates from local authorities, the Paris Prefecture of Police and the embassy's X account.
• Those planning trips to or within France should stay in direct contact with airlines or travel agents for real-time schedule changes.
• The advisory does not tell Indians to avoid France altogether.

Why the advisory was issued

More than half a million people took part in demonstrations across France on Saturday, October 17. Students demanding better conditions in education joined people protesting the high cost of living. The protests turned violent in several cities, with looting and damage to property. Authorities said about 2,400 people were arrested across the country over the weekend.

Curfews and tighter policing

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has asked the regional authorities to bring in localised, partial curfews. Also, limited curfews from 8 pm to 6 am were announced for four northern cities including Lille, and parts of Paris were put under a partial curfew with a ban on demonstrations.

Similar curfews, some applying only to minors, were announced for Lyon, Nice and Coulaines. Lecornu said new curfews would be imposed where necessary, in coordination with mayors.

Curfews helped bring a calmer night on Tuesday, but France is bracing for further unrest. The government plans to use the military to help keep order at protests planned for the coming weekend.

The government has also promised a heavy police presence this weekend.

What it means for Indian travellers

Indian nationals in France, including students and professionals, are most likely to be affected by transport disruptions and restrictions in particular areas, rather than by a country-wide shutdown. Practical steps:

• Check whether your area has a curfew before going out in the evening.
• Stay away from city-centre demonstrations, particularly on weekends.
• Confirm flights, trains and hotel bookings before travelling, since schedules may change at short notice.
• Keep passport copies and the embassy's contact details handy.

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