Thousands protest in Madrid over housing crisis after 87-year-old evicted

Thousands protested in Madrid against Spain's housing crisis, demanding tenant protections, anti-fraud rules, and a ban on evictions without alternative housing. The protest was triggered by the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal from her Madrid home. Organized by the Tenants' Union, the march drew an estimated 300,000 people, though government figures put attendance at 25,000. Protesters demanded the government include in a housing decree-law a requirement for landlords to justify non-renewal of contracts or face compensation. Podemos MEP Irene Montero warned against negotiations with Junts, while Sumar threatened to boycott Tuesday's cabinet meeting without effective measures. Abascal, hospitalized after the eviction, urged legal changes to prevent similar cases. The property owner proposed her return, but the city council rejected it as unlawful. Protesters planned to camp overnight in Puerta del Sol.