Dijana Hrka, mother of Stefan Hrka, who tragically died in the collapse of a canopy at the Novi Sad train station, continues her hunger strike outside the Serbian Parliament for the fifth consecutive day, demanding justice for her son. The protest has drawn massive support from students, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens, reflecting widespread public outrage over the government’s inaction.
High school and university students have joined the demonstration, boycotting classes and marching toward the Parliament to support Hrka. Students from 23 schools participated today, while others plan to continue their actions in the coming days.
Authorities have responded with excessive police presence and provocative actions. Speakers at the nearby Ćacilend have broadcast Chetnik nationalist songs, including “Pošla majka da potraži sina”, causing Hrka to feel unwell. Political analyst Boban Stojanović stated that such actions were likely authorized by the government to intimidate peaceful demonstrators.
Reports indicate that students are being detained and even expelled for participating in protests, including at the State University in Novi Pazar, raising alarm over political repression and attacks on young activists.
Critics argue that President Aleksandar Vučić’s administration is not only ignoring public grievances but actively undermining civil liberties, using intimidation and spectacle to maintain control while avoiding accountability. The government’s handling of Hrka’s protest underscores a delusional disconnect from reality, prioritizing political survival over justice, transparency, and the rule of law.
This incident further highlights concerns about weakening democratic institutions in Serbia, including media control, the erosion of parliamentary oversight, and executive overreach, signaling a troubling trajectory for governance and civil rights.
As Dijana Hrka’s hunger strike continues, it serves as a powerful reminder of the growing tension between an increasingly authoritarian government and citizens demanding accountability, justice, and respect for human dignity.
