Belgrade protests erupt over Novi Sad tragedy

Belgrade protests erupt over Novi Sad tragedy
Belgrade protests erupt over Novi Sad tragedy

A massive protest erupted in Belgrade, drawing tens of thousands of demonstrators who gathered to voice their anger over the fatal Novi Sad railway station collapse that claimed 15 lives last month. According to the internal affairs ministry, up to 29,000 people participated in the demonstration at Slavija Square.

The protest, organized by student and farmer unions, targeted President Aleksandar Vucic and his Serbian Progressive Party, with demonstrators holding banners reading "Your hands are bloody" and "Do you have a clear conscience?" The crowd observed a poignant 15-minute silence, illuminated by mobile phone lights, to honor the victims of the November 1 tragedy.

The incident, which involved the collapse of a concrete awning at the recently renovated Novi Sad station, has sparked widespread allegations of corruption and nepotism in construction practices. While President Vucic has declassified documents related to the station's construction and repair, students claim the released information is incomplete and continue to demand the release of protesters detained in previous demonstrations.

The aftermath of the collapse led to significant political fallout, including the arrest of 11 individuals and the resignations of key government officials. Among those detained were former Construction Minister Goran Vesic, Serbian Railways Infrastructure Director Jelena Tanaskovic, and other high-ranking officials. Foreign Trade Minister Tomislav Momirovic also stepped down.

The protest reflects ongoing tension between the government and opposition, with universities across Serbia suspending classes as students maintain campus occupations. Despite President Vucic's assurances that protesters' demands have been met, the opposition continues to criticize the government's handling of the tragedy, with investigations focusing on alleged negligence during the station's 2021 renovation work.