(ANSA) Rome, May 15 - The Interior ministry rejected Friday claims by Northern League leader Matteo Salvini that he has been denied sufficient protection while campaigning, saying more than 8,000 police agents have been deployed to ensure his safety since February 28.
Salvini claimed that democracy was at risk in Italy after he was spat on by a demonstrator protesting his visit to the Umbrian town of Marsciano.
"Where are (premier Matteo) Renzi and (Interior Minister Angelino) Alfano? Where is democracy? This morning I even took a spit in the face ... I am beginning to think that it is useful for someone to prevent the League holding rallies," Salvini told Radio Padania.
The Interior Ministry in a statement said that "from February 28 up till today, 8,465 members of the forces of order have been deployed in 62 provinces in connection with Salvini's political activities".
Salvini has adopted hardline stances on migration issues and trouble has broken out at several recent events involving him.
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