Legalization of same-sex marriage bill in France triggers violent clashes

The French National Assembly adopted the bill on same-sex marriage and adoptions by gay families. The bill raised new protests across France. In Paris and Lyon, rallies escalated into clashes with police. Crowds of people began throwing firecrackers, bottles and other objects at police officers. The crowd of demonstrators was chanting slogans "Down with Hollande." The police had to use tear gas against the protesters. 

One policeman was injured in the clashes after a rock hit his head. In Paris, 12 demonstrators were arrested, 44 more people were arrested in Lyon.

The lower house of the French parliament approved the bill on same-sex marriage with the 331 votes. 225 deputies voted against the document. Previously, the document had been approved by the upper house of the parliament - the Senate. The bill is expected to come into force at the beginning of the summer, when French President Francois Hollande signs it. The legalization of gay marriage was one of Hollande's campaign promises.