France Protests: India Issues Urgent Advisory For Nationals, Asks Them To Exercise Caution Amid Unrest And Local Curfews

PARIS / NEW DELHI:Amid continuing unrest, violent clashes and localised curfews in parts of France, India has advised its nationals living in the country and those travelling there to remain vigilant and exercise due caution.

In an advisory issued on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the Embassy of India in France urged Indian nationals to avoid large gatherings and crowded places where protests are taking place and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

 "In view of the recent developments and localised curfews imposed in France, please remain vigilant and exercise due caution," the embassy said.

The advisory comes as France grapples with widespread protests and riots, triggered by student demonstrations over high school conditions and expanding into mass anti-government anger over inflation and living costs. The unrest has been marked by incidents of looting, arson and clashes between demonstrators and police.

 The Indian mission asked nationals to stay informed through local news reports and official updates on the French government's website, http://gouvernement.fr, and to check public transport updates on the website of RATP, the state-owned public transport operator serving the Paris region.

 In case of an emergency, Indian nationals can contact the Embassy of India in Paris at +33 6 48 34 00 63 | cons.paris@mea.gov.in and the Consulate General of India in Marseille at +33 7 43 16 25 59 | cgo.marseille@mea.gov.in.

The protests, which began in late September over underfunded and overcrowded schools, have since swelled into massive nationwide marches over inflation, the cost of living and concerns over public services.