19 October,2026 10:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Demonstrators clash with police during an anti-government protest organised by the Italia in Piazza movement, at Piazza Duomo in Milan, on October 17. PIC/AFP
The Embassy of India in Italy on Monday advised Indian nationals in the country to exercise caution, avoid crowded areas and stay away from locations witnessing protests and demonstrations amid reports of unrest in several Italian cities last week.
In an advisory posted on X, the Embassy urged Indian nationals to remain vigilant and follow local news for updates on demonstrations.
"There were protests and demonstrations last week in some Italian cities. We advise Indian nationals to exercise caution, avoid crowded areas and locations where protests are taking place and follow local news about such events," the Embassy stated on X.
The advisory comes amid concerns over violence during demonstrations in parts of Italy. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Sunday said law enforcement personnel had faced violence from people she described as criminals exploiting demonstrations through organised groups.
"Once again, the women and men of the law enforcement forces have had to face the violence of criminals who, even through organised groups, exploit demonstrations to seek confrontation and sow chaos," Meloni stated on X.
Expressing solidarity with the security personnel, Meloni thanked them for protecting citizens and businesses and maintaining public safety amid the unrest.
"To all of them goes my full solidarity and sincere thanks. Because they were there to safeguard the safety of citizens, workers, merchants, and all the people who have the right to live their city without fear and without seeing it laid to waste and set ablaze by gangs of thugs. We stand with you," she added.
On Saturday, Meloni expressed respect for people who had participated in peaceful demonstrations, while urging opposition leaders to condemn incidents of violence.
"I have great respect for the thousands of people who today demonstrated peacefully, including those who took part in the mobilisation called by the CGIL, which also saw the participation of left-wing leaders. Whatever the ideas for which one demonstrates, participation is the foundation of any healthy democracy," she said.
However, Meloni cited incidents of violence in Milan, Turin and Bologna during the demonstrations. She said stones were thrown at law enforcement personnel in Milan, leaving officers injured.
In Turin, she said, people were stopped while carrying cobblestones and hammers used for breaking windows. In Bologna, disturbances prompted the precautionary closure of the railway station.
"Thugs who exploit demonstrations to sow chaos, attack those who ensure security, and hold entire cities hostage," she said.
Emphasising the distinction between peaceful protest and violence, Meloni added, "Demonstrating is a right. Setting our cities ablaze is not."
She also reiterated her appeal to opposition leaders to unequivocally condemn violent acts and call for peaceful demonstrations.
"I renew my request to the opposition: do not be ambiguous about this. Unequivocally condemn these acts of violence and issue a clear appeal for every mobilisation to be peaceful. In the face of scenes like these, the rejection must be unanimous. Any hesitation becomes justification. Silence is not acceptable," Meloni emphasised.
The Indian Embassy's advisory urged nationals to remain alert, avoid areas where protests are taking place and monitor local news for further developments.
(With IANS inputs)
