Protesters dragged, knocked down: French police charges right into crowd

French riot police intervene as protests continue across the country, with officers seen charging into the crowd

French police arrested over 1,000 people during nationwide protests, as demonstrations over the rising cost of living and the education system saw clashes in several cities.The unrest has continued into Monday, with riot police intervening to clear students blocking Sciences Po Paris.Footage from the Paris institution showed riot police charging into a group of protesters, pushing some against a railing and knocking a man carrying a megaphone to the ground.

Officers moved towards the crowd, used batons as protesters backed away.The intervention was aimed at evacuating students who had blocked the institution, according to the footage's accompanying description.The incident comes amid renewed tensions in France, where protests have spread over living costs and conditions in the education system.

On Saturday, interior minister Laurent Nuñez said 53 police officers were injured during demonstrations.The ministry estimated that around 4,10,000 people took part in 298 protests nationwide, while the General Confederation of Labour put the turnout at approximately 8,00,000.

Although many marches remained peaceful, clashes broke out in Paris and other cities.Authorities said police had stepped up checks and security measures after violence and damage to businesses during earlier protests.