Regional media have reported that Serbian state broadcaster RTS did not cover the anniversary of the deadly canopy collapse at Novi Sad railway station, allegedly following directives from President Aleksandar Vučić.
Students and activists organized a commemorative gathering for the 16 victims, exactly one year after the tragedy. Index, the Croatian portal, criticized RTS for airing old films and concerts instead of broadcasting the memorial, while providing live coverage from Novi Sad. The portal also noted statements from Dijana Hrka, mother of one of the victims, who announced a hunger strike, and former President Boris Tadić’s comments on Vučić’s apology.
Bosnian outlets Oslobođenje and Slobodna Bosna highlighted the massive turnout, reporting “tens of thousands of students and citizens” attending the commemoration. Many participants traveled long distances, including groups walking 16 days from Novi Pazar, to pay tribute to the victims. Slobodna Bosna also reported water and electricity outages during the anniversary, framing it as Vučić’s revenge.
Montenegrin media CDM emphasized that citizens brought flowers and candles, while the Special Prosecutor’s Office in Belgrade confirmed ongoing indictments connected to the canopy collapse. Student activist Nađa Šolaja stressed that one year later, 16 lives were lost with zero accountability, accusing authorities of prioritizing corruption over human safety.
The coverage highlights the public demand for justice and transparency, portraying the Novi Sad commemoration as both a tribute to the victims and a protest against government negligence.
