France Protests Escalate: Tear Gas Fired as Over 4 Lakh March Anti-Government
Public Lokpal
October 25, 2026
France Protests Escalate: Tear Gas Fired as Over 4 Lakh March Anti-Government
Violence flared across France as more than 4 lakh people took to the streets in sweeping nationwide anti-government demonstrations.
While trade union organizers claimed turnouts reached nearly 8 lakh, official figures placed the crowd at over 410,000 across key cities including Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Nantes.
The protests, driven by widespread anger over rising living costs, soaring inflation, and perceived government inaction on social inequality, turned chaotic in several urban hubs.
Security personnel deployed tear gas, water cannons, and baton charges after groups of demonstrators threw projectiles, damaged property, and set barricades ablaze.
In Paris alone, tens of thousands marched, prompting authorities to close major metro stations and reinforce security around key landmarks.
Over 70,000 police officers were mobilized nationwide, resulting in dozens of arrests for property destruction and violence.
Despite heavy security measures, union leaders vowed to continue public mobilization until their economic demands are addressed.