As high school protests in France enter third week, teenager loses hand
High school protests across France against school funding shortages and overcrowded classrooms continue with clashes in their third week, while a teenager in the town of Lens lost his hand due to an explosive device.
As protests involving high school students in France enter their third week, a teenager was injured during scuffles between police and demonstrators when a police dispersal grenade he picked up detonated. The incident drew attention as nationwide demonstrations intensified and hundreds of schools remained closed.
Injury Incident in the Town of Lens
In the incident in the northern French town of Lens, a 15-year-old high school student participating in the protests reportedly lost his hand and part of his arm as a result of the detonation of a dispersal grenade thrown by police for intervention purposes.
Third Week of Protests and Causes
Demonstrations involving high school students across France entered their third week, addressing issues such as funding shortages in schools, overcrowded classrooms, and aging buildings.
Hundreds of schools were partially or completely closed ahead of a nationwide major demonstration organized by the student union.
Statements from Authorities
Pas-de-Calais Prefect François-Xavier Lauch stated that demonstrators threw objects at the police, avoiding comment on the details of the incident.
Education Minister Edouard Geffray stated that participation was declining while announcing a platform where students could voice their grievances and an action plan for certain schools.
Political Debates and Security Measures
The government and the far-right National Rally party accused far-left France Unbowed (LFI) lawmakers and mayors of instigating the protests, while LFI denied these allegations.
Government Spokesperson Maud Bregeon stated that the priority is to maintain order and announced a fast-track bill for October 27 that would hold young people who damage public property or their families financially responsible.
Detentions, Injuries, and Rights Claims
The Ministry of Justice announced that 5,060 people, 87 percent of whom are minors, have been detained since the protests began.
While rights groups claimed that the police used excessive force against minors such as batons, tear gas, and flash-ball launchers, it was reported that two dozen schools were burned or looted, with 78 teachers and at least 190 students injured.