Dozens Hurt as Student Protest Against Budget Cuts Turns Violent in Chile
The demonstration, organized by the Chilean Student Confederation, drew thousands of participants to the city center. The gathering was aimed at expressing opposition to the spending-reduction policies introduced by President Jose Antonio Kast's administration.
Tensions escalated during the protest, leading to confrontations between students and police. Authorities reported that 25 individuals were injured in the unrest, including 12 police officers.
According to reports, some protesters damaged public property during the clashes by throwing stones and using sticks. The disturbances also affected transportation across the capital, forcing the temporary closure of several metro stations in central Santiago and causing major traffic disruptions in surrounding areas.
Student representatives criticized the government's fiscal policies, arguing that reductions in public spending are negatively affecting the education sector. They warned that larger demonstrations could take place in the future if officials fail to respond to their concerns.
President Kast, who assumed office on March 11, has promoted a plan aimed at strengthening public finances by reducing government expenditures by roughly $6 billion over an 18-month period. As part of that strategy, ministries have been instructed to implement budget cuts of approximately 3%.
Students, educators, and labor organizations contend that schools and universities have been disproportionately impacted by the reductions. They argue that continued cuts could weaken educational institutions and diminish the quality of services provided to students across the country.
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