In France, the government has cracked down on vandals, arsonists and looters amid nationwide protests against rising prices and poor school conditions. President Emmanuel Macron has called for those involved in the violence to be held accountable and reparations. Now the government is also preparing to increase security of public buildings and traders and ban demonstrations if necessary.

In a televised address to the nation, Macron said those who looted must pay for the damage. At the same time, those who try to subvert the Republic will be held accountable. He blamed mainly radical leftist groups for the violence. The government alleged that these groups targeted the police and public buildings to spread chaos. Police in this

According to officials, around 5.5 lakh people took part in the protest on Saturday, while organizers put the number at 8 lakh. These demonstrations, called by trade unions, student unions and workers, are also aimed at reviving the 2018 Yellow Vest Movement. This movement started against social injustice and economic oppression.

Action against perpetrators of violence

President Macron has made it clear that the perpetrators of violence and looting will pay for their actions. He said that those who damaged shops and other properties should be compensated. However, detailed information about the process of recovery of damages and the legal steps to be taken for the same have not been disclosed.

Notification to enhance security of public buildings

Macron has instructed officials to work with the mayor to ensure the safety of public buildings and businesses in the coming weeks. Under this, local administration and security agencies have to pay special attention to sensitive places.

During the protests, masked groups set fire to several cities and targeted city halls. A massive fire broke out at the 19th-century city hall in the central French city of Limoges, causing its roof to collapse and the building to be nearly destroyed.

If necessary, protests may be banned

The French government may also consider banning some demonstrations if necessary to prevent violence. The President has instructed the officials to take steps in this direction. However, it is not yet clear in which cities or areas and under what circumstances such restrictions will be imposed. The government says that peaceful protest is a fundamental right of the people, but violence and looting cannot be justified under its cover.

Macron did not accept the resignation of the interior minister

After widespread violence and vandalism in France, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez offered to resign. However, President Emmanuel Macron did not accept his resignation on Monday. According to the President’s Office, Macron wants there to be a chain of command between the police and security forces, so that there is no difficulty in handling the situation.