**Police Clash with Students in Novi Sad**
On Monday night, students were confronted by riot police while protesting outside the Novi Sad City Assembly. The students had blocked the entrances to the building ahead of a budget vote.
The students’ plan was to stay overnight without entering the building. They even called on professors and local residents to join them. But police intervention turned violent, causing injuries before gendarmerie arrived to calm the situation.
**Students Chant “Go to Kosovo”**
During the confrontation, students chanted “go to Kosovo” several times. They tried to reason with police officers, asking them to remove their masks. The situation eventually calmed down.
**Professors and Residents Support Students**
After the clash, professors and local residents brought blankets and insulation to help students endure the cold night outside the City Assembly. Some students spent the night in the area.
**Student’s Account of the Incident**
Faculty of Philosophy student Jovana told a reporter that police used excessive force when they arrived on the scene. She said students raised their hands in surrender, but police threw barriers at them and pushed them back.
“I think they used too much force,” Jovana explained. “We had warned them we would leave peacefully.”
**Background: Student Protests**
This is not the first time students have protested outside the Novi Sad City Assembly. In January, a previous session was secured by heavy police forces after a new mayor was elected. Students condemned the undemocratic atmosphere and announced their attendance at the next session.
In December, the session was canceled three times, and student representatives were denied the chance to address councilors. As a result, Novi Sad entered 2025 without a budget.
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