Paris:Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Paris in a massive march to protest against rising prices and excessive police violence. The protestors began their march from Republic Square and proceeded towards Nation Square, with banners and slogans in hand, accompanied by the sound of drums setting the rhythm for the march.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the demonstration included youth and student movements along with groups from the “Yellow Vest” movement. This protest is part of a larger wave of discontent in France over the high cost of living and the violent practices of security forces.

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez had announced that between 50 and 60 demonstrations were expected across the country on November 14, with 70,000 police and gendarmes mobilized for security. Paris police intelligence anticipated 30,000 to 60,000 participants in the capital, warning of potential security disturbances due to the convergence of multiple protest movements.

The protests are also linked to opposition from human rights groups regarding a forthcoming bill in the French Senate, which concerns the presumption of legality in the use of firearms by security forces. Critics claim the bill would provide broad legal protection for police using weapons.

Authorities granted permission for the march to proceed through key areas in Paris, including Place de la Bastille, under tight security to prevent violence. This wave of protests began in mid-September, initially sparked by high school students demanding better educational conditions, and has since expanded to include broader grievances. French security forces have faced criticism for their use of tear gas, stun grenades, and water cannons in dispersing protesters.