Police in Greece clashed with protesters who marking the anniversary of a student uprising against the country’s military rule back in 1973.
Security forces on fired tear gas and pushed back the demonstrating students who were trying to enter the Faculty of Law at Athens University.
Press TV reports: Clashes came after the university’s dean ordered a five-day closure of the campus starting late Wednesday in view of the upcoming celebrations commemorating the 41st anniversary of the students’ revolt on November 17, 1973.
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The school authorities have also banned all student sit-ins during the same period to prevent violence. According to media reports, at least two students were injured in the clashes and were reportedly taken to hospital.
Thursday’s clashes came after a statement by government spokesperson, Sofia Voultepsi, who warned students and political parties supporting student action, including the main opposition party, SYRIZA, against mounting protests at universities.
Greek riot police has taken position outside Athens’ Law School and other universities following reports that students’ associations plan to occupy several university buildings.
Every year on November 17, Greek students march to the American Embassy to commemorate the student uprising against the country’s military rule. Washington has been accused of supporting the seven-year dictatorship that fell in 1974.
Over the past years, the annual event has turned into a mass march against the Greek government’s policies, including austerity measures.
Greece has been at the epicenter of the eurozone debt crisis and is currently experiencing its seventh year of recession, while harsh austerity measures have left tens of thousands of people without jobs across the country.
Niamh Harris
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