ROME, October 19 (ANI) — The Embassy of India in Italy issued an advisory on Monday urging Indian nationals across the country to remain vigilant and avoid crowded areas amid ongoing protests and demonstrations.
“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.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Sunday that law enforcement personnel had faced aggression from individuals who exploit public gatherings through organized 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.
On Saturday, Meloni expressed appreciation for those who exercised their democratic right to protest peacefully while urging political opponents to unequivocally condemn outbreaks of violence.
“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.
The Italian leader noted that during disturbances in Milan, projectiles were thrown at security personnel, injuring officers. In Turin, authorities intercepted individuals carrying paving stones and tools capable of breaking glass, while public disorder in Bologna prompted the preventive closure of the central railway station.
“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 emphasized.
“I renew my request to the opposition, do not be ambiguous about this. Unequivocally condemn these acts of violence and issue a clear appeal for every mobilisation to be peaceful. In the face of scenes like these, the rejection must be unanimous. Any hesitation becomes justification. Silence is not acceptable,” Meloni emphasized. (ANI)
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