Massive Anti-Government Protests Erupt in Belgrade Following Deadly Train Station Collapse
Over 100,000 Serbians rally against corruption and demand accountability after Novi Sad tragedy.
In one of the largest demonstrations in recent Serbian history, over 100,000 citizens gathered in Belgrade on March 15, 2025, protesting against systemic corruption and demanding accountability from President Aleksandar Vučić's administration.
The catalyst for these protests was the tragic collapse of the Novi Sad railway station canopy on November 1, 2024, which resulted in 15 fatalities and several injuries.
The Novi Sad railway station, constructed in 1964 and renovated between 2021 and mid-2024, experienced a catastrophic structural failure when its concrete canopy collapsed onto the pavement below.
This incident led to widespread public outcry, with many attributing the disaster to governmental negligence and corruption.
The initial protests, spearheaded by university students, quickly gained momentum, drawing support from various sectors, including educators, healthcare professionals, legal experts, and agricultural workers.
Demonstrators accused President Vučić of consolidating power and undermining democratic institutions.
Despite government attempts to hinder the protests by suspending public transportation, thousands marched to the capital, with some traveling significant distances on foot.
During the Belgrade rally, a 15-minute silence was observed to honor the victims of the Novi Sad collapse.
However, the event was marred by an unexpected loud noise, causing panic and a brief stampede among attendees.
Witnesses described the sound as resembling a low-flying aircraft, leading to confusion and fear.
Some participants reported symptoms such as ear pain, headaches, and nausea.
In response to allegations that security forces deployed a prohibited sonic weapon during the rally, rights groups and opposition leaders have called for an independent investigation.
President Vučić has denied these claims and suggested involving international agencies, including the FBI and Russia's FSB, to examine the accusations.
The protests have led to political repercussions, including the resignation of Prime Minister Miloš Vučević and two cabinet ministers.
Demonstrators continue to demand increased transparency, the prosecution of those responsible for the Novi Sad disaster, and a 20% increase in the higher education budget.
As the movement persists, it represents a significant challenge to President Vučić's decade-long rule, highlighting deep-seated public dissatisfaction with corruption and governance in Serbia.
The catalyst for these protests was the tragic collapse of the Novi Sad railway station canopy on November 1, 2024, which resulted in 15 fatalities and several injuries.
The Novi Sad railway station, constructed in 1964 and renovated between 2021 and mid-2024, experienced a catastrophic structural failure when its concrete canopy collapsed onto the pavement below.
This incident led to widespread public outcry, with many attributing the disaster to governmental negligence and corruption.
The initial protests, spearheaded by university students, quickly gained momentum, drawing support from various sectors, including educators, healthcare professionals, legal experts, and agricultural workers.
Demonstrators accused President Vučić of consolidating power and undermining democratic institutions.
Despite government attempts to hinder the protests by suspending public transportation, thousands marched to the capital, with some traveling significant distances on foot.
During the Belgrade rally, a 15-minute silence was observed to honor the victims of the Novi Sad collapse.
However, the event was marred by an unexpected loud noise, causing panic and a brief stampede among attendees.
Witnesses described the sound as resembling a low-flying aircraft, leading to confusion and fear.
Some participants reported symptoms such as ear pain, headaches, and nausea.
In response to allegations that security forces deployed a prohibited sonic weapon during the rally, rights groups and opposition leaders have called for an independent investigation.
President Vučić has denied these claims and suggested involving international agencies, including the FBI and Russia's FSB, to examine the accusations.
The protests have led to political repercussions, including the resignation of Prime Minister Miloš Vučević and two cabinet ministers.
Demonstrators continue to demand increased transparency, the prosecution of those responsible for the Novi Sad disaster, and a 20% increase in the higher education budget.
As the movement persists, it represents a significant challenge to President Vučić's decade-long rule, highlighting deep-seated public dissatisfaction with corruption and governance in Serbia.
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