MPs set off flares, release gas during Serbian parliament session

On March 4, Serbian opposition lawmakers set off flares and released gas suspected to be tear gas on the opening day of the country's spring session of parliament, injuring several lawmakers.

Serbian Health Minister Zlatibor Loncar said an MP was taken to intensive care after suffering a smoke-induced stroke.

Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic criticized these actions of the opposition.

The prosecution has ordered police to collect all evidence to identify the individuals who carried and used the flares and find those who threw objects during the meeting.

The opposition's response was intended to show support for months of student-led anti-corruption protests, following the fatal collapse of a train station roof that killed 15 people.

The movement has been putting increasing pressure on the Serbian government and President Aleksandar Vucic, forcing several senior officials, including Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, to resign in January.

The March 4 session of parliament will consider approving Mr Vucic's resignation, as well as discussing a new higher education bill that would reduce tuition fees for university students, one of the protesters' demands.

Parliament Speaker Ana Brnanic said the parliament will continue to vote on the bill following the developments.