New Delhi, Oct. 25 -- France is in the midst of a massive wave of protests, triggered by the growing discontent among the public over the spiraling cost of living, unaffordable housing, stagnant wages, and rising energy costs. According to French authorities, around 410,000 protesters had marched across the country in the latest wave of demonstrations.

While initial gatherings were relatively peaceful, severe clashes broke out late Saturday evening in Paris. Riot police deployed tear gas and water cannons against crowds to restore order as security forces massed across the country to prevent a repeat of recent violence.

Violence and confrontations with police spread to several major regional hubs, including Lyon, Lille, Marseille, Montp...