Tensions escalated in Novi Sad as opposition political members and students attempted to block access to the city's assembly, protesting against an unexpectedly scheduled session where the 2025 city budget was set to be discussed.

This incident follows a series of protests in the city, particularly after a tragic event in November 2024, where a roof collapse at the reconstructed railway station led to the deaths of 15 people.

Demonstrations have since called for accountability and the resignation of city officials, including mayor Milan Đurić.

During the night between Monday and Tuesday, members of the intervention police dispersed the protesters, and reports of injuries among demonstrators emerged, although confirmation was pending.

Local media outlets indicated that the police utilized batons during the operation, and members of the Gendarmerie were deployed to stabilize the situation.

The gathered students and opposition representatives expressed frustration over the assembly's decision to hold the session on a day of mourning, following the recent loss of life in a fire in North Macedonia.

They described the scheduling as disrespectful and indicative of the authorities' reluctance to engage with public concerns.

Following the police intervention, Miran Pogačar, an opposition politician from the Bravo party, was reported detained.

His legal representative remarked on the difficulty in obtaining information about his whereabouts following the arrest.

Similar protests have occurred in the past months in Novi Sad, reflecting ongoing dissatisfaction with the ruling Serbian Progressive Party and its governance.

This unrest has been fueled by demands for political accountability, particularly in light of the aforementioned fatalities from the railway station collapse, which protestors attribute to administrative negligence.

The current assembly session was hastily convened, triggering claims from opposition members that the notice period was insufficient for proper preparation.

Initially, the agenda listed 59 items, which later expanded to over 160 items, causing further controversy over the assembly’s procedures.

In a related incident in Obrenovac, citizens expressed their dissatisfaction with local officials by throwing eggs at them during a protest.

The confrontation led to several arrests and condemnation from political leaders who emphasized the need for lawful assembly and action against violence.

Prime Minister Miloš Vučević commented on the violent nature of the protest, stressing that while peaceful demonstrations are acceptable, any acts of aggression will be met with law enforcement.

Various officials have spoken out against the rising tensions and violence in public protests, highlighting the need for dialogue and peaceful expression of dissent.