Protests in Serbia over deadly railway accident

Violent protests erupted in Novi Sad, Serbia's second-largest city,as thousands demonstrated over a deadly railway station accident that claimed 14 lives and seriously injured three others last Friday. Protesters blame government negligence and corruption for the tragic collapse of the station's roofing.

The initially peaceful demonstration turned violent when some protesters broke windows at the historic city hall, threw flares and firecrackers inside, and spilled liquid manure. Police responded with pepper spray to disperse the crowd, though organizers later claimed the violence was caused by provocateurs.

Demonstrators demanded the resignation of top officials, including President Aleksandar Vucic and Prime Minister Milos Vucević, carrying banners with messages such as "Blood is on your hands" and "You will answer for this." The protest began with a moment of silence for the victims at the railway station before marching through the city streets.

Construction Minister Goran Vesić submitted his resignation amid mounting pressure. While officials claimed the collapsed canopy was not part of recent renovation work, engineering experts, including former project supervisor Zoran Đajić, disputed this claim, stating that modifications had been made to the structure.

The incident has intensified criticism of Serbia's government, with opposition groups accusing authorities of corruption, organized crime ties, and bureaucratic mismanagement. Prosecutors have questioned over 40 people as part of the investigation, though many Serbians remain skeptical about the prospects for justice under the current administration.

President Vucic addressed the nation, warning against violence and promising consequences for those involved in the unrest. He also mentioned considering a proposal for a referendum on his future, potentially leading to early presidential elections next year.