Tensions flared in Serbia's parliament on Tuesday as opposition members deployed smoke grenades and tear gas, creating chaos within the assembly hall. This dramatic act of protest was aimed at the current government and demonstrated solidarity with student demonstrators who have been demanding accountability and justice following a deadly railway station canopy collapse in November.

The incident resulted in injuries to at least three lawmakers, one of whom is in critical condition after suffering a stroke. This escalation of political unrest further destabilizes the Balkan nation, strategically located between Southeast and Central Europe.

Videos circulating from within the parliament capture the chaotic scene, showcasing clashes between lawmakers and the deployment of smoke bombs and flares. Reports from Serbian media indicate that eggs and water bottles were also thrown. Simultaneously, hundreds of opposition supporters rallied outside the parliament building.

The root of this unrest stems from the tragic railway station canopy collapse in November, which ignited widespread protests demanding justice and government accountability. Public sentiment points towards corruption and negligence regarding safety regulations as contributing factors to the collapse, particularly given the involvement of two Chinese companies in the station's renovation.

The protests ultimately led to the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic in January, marking the highest-ranking official to step down amidst the crisis. However, the resignation, which still requires parliamentary confirmation, has failed to quell the public outcry, with demonstrations persisting in Belgrade and throughout the country.

The parliamentary session on Tuesday was intended to address a law increasing university education funding, a key demand of the student protesters. However, the opposition alleges that the ruling majority planned to push through numerous other decisions, deeming this action illegal until the prime minister's resignation and his government are formally confirmed.

Following the ruling coalition's approval of the agenda, a physical altercation ensued between opposition politicians, security guards, and the parliamentary speaker. Smoke grenades and tear gas filled the parliament chamber, echoing similar disruptive incidents that have occurred since the introduction of multi-party democracy in 1990.

While the ruling coalition continued its debate, opposition members employed whistles and horns to disrupt the proceedings. They also displayed signs advocating for a general strike and justice for the victims of the railway station collapse. Outside the parliament building, protesters held a silent vigil in memory of the 15 individuals who perished in the tragedy.

Parliament speaker Ana Brnabic labeled the opposition a "terrorist gang," while the ruling coalition has accused Western intelligence agencies of orchestrating the protests to destabilize Serbia and overthrow the government. The government has attempted to deflect responsibility for the station collapse, initially downplaying its role, then resorting to force and blaming foreign agitators for the unrest.

Critics argue that the government's lack of transparency and accountability reflects deep-seated institutional corruption within Serbia. Protest leaders have called for a major rally in Belgrade on March 15, signaling a continuation of the political tension and public demand for change.