India Issues Advisory for Citizens in Italy After Violent Protests in Milan

India has issued a safety advisory for its citizens living in Italy after protests over rising living costs turned violent in Milan. The Indian Embassy has asked people to stay away from crowded places, avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and follow local news for updates.

The advisory was issued on Monday after a weekend of unrest in several Italian cities. The embassy also shared emergency contact numbers for Indians who may need assistance.

What has India advised its citizens?

In a post on X, the Embassy of India in Italy said that protests and demonstrations had taken place in some Italian cities during the previous week.

The embassy advised Indian nationals to remain alert, avoid crowded areas and stay away from places where protests are happening. It also asked them to follow local news so they can keep track of any changes in the situation.

The message is mainly a precaution. It is intended to help Indians avoid areas where clashes could put their safety at risk.

The embassy also provided the following emergency contact numbers:

Embassy of India, Rome: +39 331 614 2085

Consulate General of India, Milan: +39 388 164 7527

Indian nationals in Italy can use these numbers if they need emergency assistance.

What happened in Milan?

Milan witnessed violent clashes during demonstrations over rising living costs and other public concerns. More than 5,000 people reportedly gathered in the city over the weekend.

The demonstration initially began peacefully, but some groups later clashed with police. Protesters reportedly threw paving stones, rubbish bins and chairs at officers, while shops and other property were damaged.

Police responded by using tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. The violence disrupted parts of the city centre and forced people to leave some busy public areas.

The important point is that the violence took place during protests that had broader social and economic concerns. Not everyone who joined the demonstrations was involved in clashes.

Why are people protesting?

The rising cost of living is one of the main issues behind the demonstrations. When everyday expenses such as rent, food, transport and energy become harder to afford, frustration can grow among families and young people.

Concerns about public services and wider political issues have also contributed to demonstrations in parts of Europe.

People have the right to express their concerns through peaceful protests. However, when demonstrations turn into violence, the situation can become dangerous for protesters, residents, shopkeepers, tourists and police officers alike.

That is why the Indian Embassy has advised its citizens to avoid protest locations rather than take unnecessary risks.

What has Italy's government said?

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has condemned the violence and is set to hold an emergency security meeting to discuss the situation.

On Saturday, Meloni said, “To demonstrate is a right. To lay our cities to waste is not.”

She accused groups she described as “hooligans” of using the protests to create disorder and attack those responsible for maintaining public safety.

Her government is under pressure to restore order while also dealing with the public concerns that have brought people onto the streets.

Are similar protests happening in other European countries?

Yes. Italy is not the only European country to have experienced protests followed by violent incidents.

France, Spain and Albania have also seen demonstrations linked to different social, economic and political concerns. In some places, mostly peaceful gatherings have been followed by clashes involving smaller groups.

However, the reasons behind the protests differ from country to country. It would be misleading to assume that all the demonstrations are part of one coordinated movement.

What should Indians in Italy do now?

For Indians living in Italy, the most practical step is to follow the embassy's advice and stay informed.

They should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, keep away from large crowds if tensions rise and follow instructions issued by local authorities. Anyone who needs urgent help can contact the Indian Embassy in Rome or the Consulate General in Milan using the numbers listed above.

The advisory does not mean that every part of Italy is unsafe. It is a precaution following unrest in some cities.

For now, the message from Indian officials is simple: stay alert, avoid protest-hit areas and put personal safety first.