Thursday, police in Paris clashed with people protesting against French President Emmanuel Macron’s plan to require a coronavirus vaccine certificate or negative PCR test to enter bars, restaurants and cinemas starting next month, according to Reuters.

Macron this week announced new measures to combat a rapid surge in the number of new coronavirus infections, including the mandatory vaccination of those working in health sectors and new health pass rules for the wider public.

The police fired tear gas on protesters.

Some protesters wore badges saying “No to the health pass.”

The decision also includes requiring shopping malls, cafes, bars, and restaurants to check the health passes of all those wishing to enter these facilities starting August.

Some people criticized Macron’s plan, saying they accuse the president of trampling on freedoms and discriminating against those who do not want to receive a coronavirus vaccine.

“It's totally arbitrary and wholly undemocratic,” a protester said.

Protests also took place in other cities including Nantes, Marseille, and Montpellier.

Previously, Macron said the vaccine is the best way to put France back on the path to normalcy.

Among other proposals in the government's draft bill is the mandatory quarantine for a period of 10 days for anyone who tests positive for the coronavirus, with police making random checks, French media reported. However, the Prime Minister's office did not respond when asked to confirm the details.

Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, France has confirmed 5,829,724 cases and 111,413 deaths.