India advises French citizens to be cautious during riots and curfews
A man walks past a destroyed bank with the slogan “Capitalism kills” days after nationwide protests against the cost of living and rising fuel prices called by the “Yellow Vest” movement and ahead of a second round of demonstrations in Paris, France, October 21, 2026. | Photo credit: Reuters
India has advised its nationals living in France and those traveling to the country to remain vigilant and exercise caution amid ongoing unrest, violent clashes and localized curfews in parts of Europe.
The Embassy of India in France on Wednesday (Oct 21, 2026) urged Indian nationals to avoid large gatherings and crowded places where protests are taking place and to follow instructions issued by local authorities.
“Due to recent developments and local curfews in place in France, please be vigilant and exercise appropriate caution,” it said.
The recommendation comes as France grapples with large-scale protests and riots sparked by student demonstrations under high school conditions that have escalated into mass anti-government anger over inflation and the cost of living. The unrest was marked by incidents of looting, arson and clashes between protesters and police.
The Indian mission asked citizens to stay informed through local news and official updates on the French government website gouvernement.fr.
They are also advised to check public transport updates on the website of RATP, the state public transport operator serving the Paris area.
In case of emergency, Indian nationals can contact the Indian Embassy in Paris or the Consulate General of India in Marseille, the advisory said.
Protests that began in late September over underfunded and overcrowded schools have since grown into massive nationwide marches over inflation, the cost of living and concerns about public services.
Violence erupted on the fringes of demonstrations on October 17, prompting authorities to impose local curfews in parts of Paris and other cities, including Lille, Lyon and Nice. Marseille also imposed restrictions on gatherings and demonstrations.
According to media reports, more than 2,400 people were arrested and nearly 1,000 police officers were injured during the weekend riots.
President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to prevent a repeat of the violence as protest groups prepare more demonstrations.
France’s main student union and the Yellow Vests movement, the popular protest movement whose fuel price agitations rocked the country in 2018 and 2019, have called a rally for Saturday (25 October 2026).
The union has also called a strike for November 5 over the cost of living and cuts to public services.
Published – 22 Oct 2026 09:33 IST