Clashes in Madrid as demonstrators rally against anti-protest bill (video & photos)

Riots police block a street as supporters of anticapitalist social movement Rodea El Congreso throw bottles during a protest dubbed "Surround the congress" in Mardrid on December 14, 2013 demanding a change towards a, "genuine social democracy". (AFP Photo / Dani Pozo)

At least 23 people have been hurt in clashes outside the Spanish Parliament in Madrid, as hundreds of protesters gathered on Saturday to demonstrate against newly proposed anti-protest legislation.

The demonstrators held signs that said 'Freedom to protest’ and 'People's Party, shame of Spain!' while police and barricades prevented them from getting any closer to the parliament building.

The rally in the heart of the Spanish capital finished by 10 p.m. local time, with at least seven protesters detained and 23 people injured - 14 of them police - EFE news agency reports.

Watch Ruptly's footage of the violent scenes on the streets of Madrid:

Spain: Hundreds fight police on steps of parliament

The new law, drafted by Spain's ruling People's Party, would introduce fines for activists taking part in unauthorized protests, publishing images of police, or interrupting public events.

Demonstrating near parliament without permission could result in a fine as high as 600,000 euro (US$824,040), while insulting a police officer could cost a demonstrator up to 30,000 euro ($41,202).

A semi-naked protester kneels near the Parliament building during a protest against a new security law in Madrid December 14, 2013. (Reuters / Sergio Perez)

A protester throws a glass bottle during clashes with police at the end of a protest against a new security law in Madrid December 14, 2013. (Reuters / Sergio Perez)

A woman holds her bloodied head as supporters of anticapitalist social movement Rodea El Congreso demonstrate outside the congress during a protest dubbed "Surround the congress" in Mardrid on December 14, 2013 demanding a change towards a, "genuine social democracy". (AFP Photo / Dani Pozo)

Spain: Protesters besiege parliament over anti-protest law

Spanish National Police officers in full riot gear stand near a trash container with broken glass bottles during clashes with protesters at the end of a protest against a new security law in Madrid December 14, 2013. (Reuters / Sergio Perez)

Source: RT News