French school protests turn deadly as teen loses hand in stun grenade blast

A 15-year-old student lost his hand after picking up a police stun grenade during school protests in Lens, France, on Monday, as hundreds of schools remained blockaded nationwide. An investigation into the incident has been opened. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu called the students' grievances "legitimate" and ordered ministers to address five key demands, including replacing absent teachers and repairing dilapidated buildings. He also requested a review of France's long school days, with proposals due by the end of the month. The protests began in late September over teacher shortages and have spread amid anger at social inequality. Around 5,000 people have been arrested, and a separate complaint alleges police violence caused a 16-year-old to lose sight in his eye. Student unions have called for a national protest on Tuesday.