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2021.01.31 02:44 GMT+8

Fresh protests held in France against controversial security bill

Updated 2021.01.31 02:44 GMT+8
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Yellow vests protesters clash with anti-riot police at the starts of the demonstration against the Global security bill in Paris, France. /Getty Images

A fresh round of demonstrations was held on Saturday in France in protest against a security bill which opponents argue will limit the filming of police and posting images to social media, especially to document cases of police brutality.

Several people, among them activists from the anti-government "yellow vest" movement, in a number of French cities were also against the use of surveillance tools, like drones and pedestrian cameras.

Some of the protestors also came out to demand for more protection of the cultural sector. One lady told AFP she had come out to protest against the security law and also to support culture.

"Lots of stores are open, the metro is packed, yet cultural sites are closed, even though we can apply protective measures," the lady identified as Kim, a 24-year-old civil service intern said.

Also among the protesters were a section of youth who were demanding for the right to hold rave parties.

The number of demonstrators was, however, limited by poor weather and COVID-19 restrictions.

President Emmanuel Macron's ruling LREM party said it would rewrite a controversial "Article 24" of the bill after the proposed law triggered a wave of protests and drew condemnation from civil rights activists and journalist groups. France also received warnings from the European Union and the United Nations.

The government, on its part, argues that the proposed law is needed because police officers have become targets of attacks and calls for violence against them on social media.

The bill is set to be scrutinized in the Senate, France's upper chamber, having following approval by the National Assembly.

(With input from agencies)

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