The Bačka Eparchy of the Serbian Orthodox Church issued a public appeal on November 6, urging the residents of Novi Sad to end the violence and unrest following recent protests. In its statement, the eparchy condemned acts of vandalism and attacks on the city hall, emphasizing that violence and politically charged demonstrations cannot be justified by sympathy for victims of the recent tragic incident at the train station. The eparchy highlighted that while everyone has the right to express their views, destruction and arson are unacceptable.

Thousands of residents in Novi Sad took to the streets, calling for government resignations after the fatal collapse of a concrete canopy at the city’s railway station on November 1, which killed 14 people. Following a three-day mourning period, protests escalated on November 5, with around 10,000 people gathering in the city’s central square. Demonstrators expressed anger over the tragedy and demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Miloš Vučević and Mayor Milan Đurić, seeking accountability and transparency regarding contracts with Chinese companies involved in the station’s renovation.

As protesters attempted to enter the city hall, they clashed with police, resulting in escalated confrontations. Protesters threw stones, while police deployed tear gas. A fire briefly broke out near the building, though it was quickly extinguished. Demonstrators also splattered government buildings and the headquarters of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party with red paint, leaving handprints as a symbol of protest.

Late on November 5, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić visited Novi Sad, pledging accountability for those responsible for the tragedy. He also commended the police for their restraint during the protests, vowing that justice would be served.