Paris: Student protests in France against dilapidated buildings, inadequate facilities and a shortage of teachers in public high schools turned violent on Tuesday, leading to the arrest of around 500 people across the country.

The protests began in late September, when students aged 15 to 17 blocked the entrances to hundreds of high schools, demanding better educational facilities. Parents, teachers and union workers later joined the protest movement.

According to France’s Interior Ministry, around 256,000 people participated in Tuesday’s protests nationwide, while unions put the number of demonstrators at as many as 450,000. Clashes between police and protesters were reported at several locations.

The Interior Ministry said at least 488 people were arrested on Tuesday, while 43 security personnel were injured. Amid the unrest, President Emmanuel Macron called an emergency meeting, where senior officials and ministers were expected to discuss the situation.

Students, unions and human rights organisations have accused police of using disproportionate force. On Monday, a young protester lost a hand after police used a stun grenade to disperse demonstrators.

In another incident, a tear-gas grenade struck a 14-year-old student in the face at extremely close range in northwestern Paris, causing him to lose several teeth. A police officer has been charged in connection with the incident.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump also commented on the protests in France, linking the unrest in the country to “mass migration” and Islam. His remarks came amid his broader efforts to promote a right-wing narrative internationally.

During the ongoing protests, demonstrators are demanding a better educational environment, repairs to school buildings, improved basic facilities and an end to teacher shortages. The French government is now facing not only the growing protests but also mounting questions over police conduct.