India's travel advisory for Europe urges Indian nationals in France, Italy and Belgium to remain vigilant amid protests. France is preparing to deploy 70,000 security personnel on October 24, 2026, while Indian embassies advise citizens to avoid demonstrations and monitor local alerts.
WORLD NEWS | OCTOBER 23, 2026
India has advised its citizens in France, Italy and Belgium to remain vigilant and avoid protest-affected areas as demonstrations continue across parts of Europe.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued the warning on Friday, October 23, 2026, as French authorities prepared a major security deployment ahead of nationwide protests scheduled for Saturday, October 24.
India issues safety advisory for nationals in Europe
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Indian diplomatic missions in France, Italy and Belgium were monitoring developments and maintaining contact with Indian communities.
Indian nationals were urged to exercise caution while traveling, avoid demonstration sites and follow instructions from local authorities.
The Indian embassies in France and Italy have also issued separate safety advisories.
France prepares to deploy 70,000 police officers
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced plans to deploy approximately 70,000 police officers and gendarmes nationwide on October 24 to prevent further violence.
The deployment follows demonstrations that escalated into clashes, looting and property damage. Protests initially driven by concerns over school conditions have expanded into broader anger over rising living costs and public services.
Authorities have imposed restrictions on certain demonstrations, including designated protest routes in Paris.
Indian embassy warns of curfews and travel disruptions
In an advisory dated Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the Indian Embassy in Paris urged citizens to avoid large gatherings, remain alert to localized curfews and monitor public transportation disruptions.
Indian nationals requiring emergency assistance in France can contact the embassy in Paris at +33 6 48 34 00 63 or [email protected].
The embassy also advised travelers to check official French government updates and public transportation notices.
Orléans braces for major demonstration
French authorities expect between 20,000 and 30,000 protesters in Orléans, a city south of Paris, on October 24. The demonstration is directed against the far-right National Rally party, associated with Marine Le Pen.
Officials have modified the march route to keep demonstrators away from the city center as security measures intensify.
With further demonstrations expected, Indian nationals in affected areas face potential transport disruptions, gathering restrictions and localized security measures. Indian diplomatic missions are continuing to monitor developments while French authorities prepare to manage the protests.
