Mélenchon declares ‘Bastille retaken’ after major student rally in Paris
The mass student-led movement emerged over a range of issues including long school days, overcrowded schools, teacher absences.
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the France Unbowed party, declared the Bastille to be "retaken" after a major student rally in Paris on Thursday. The protest, organized by students across the country, was part of an ongoing movement since September 17, addressing concerns such as long school days, overcrowded facilities, and teacher absenteeism.
The demonstration began peacefully but turned violent, with clashes occurring between protesters and police. Tear gas and a water cannon were deployed. Mélenchon praised the demonstration, lauding the youth for their remarkable display of determination and pride. He called for further action on Tuesday, October 13, urging support from youth unions and workers.
The Bastille's storming in 1789 marked a pivotal moment in the French Revolution, symbolizing resistance against royal authority. Mélenchon's party, along with its allies, has faced accusations of exploiting young people for political gain. So far, more than 6,600 arrests have been made since late September, when student protests began demanding increased education funding. The Education Ministry reported that 375 schools were either fully or partially closed on Thursday.
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