IN PICTURES: Protesters gathered in Brazil's capital to demonstrate against PEC 55.
Brazil's National Congress in Brasilia was the focus of protests Tuesday against PEC 55, a controversial constitutional amendment that will freeze public spending for the next 20 years.
Hundreds of riot police were sent to control the mounting tension, firing pepper spray at the young demonstrators.
Pictures
Protesters face off against riot police at the Explanada de Ministerios, the principal avenue of government buildings and ministries.EFE
Riot police attack an anti-austerity protester.Reuters
A riot-policeman fires pepper spray against a demonstrator during a protest against the constitutional amendment PEC 55, which limits public spending.Reuters
A man lights up his cigarette with the flames of a burning bus.Reuters
Demonstrators launch a flare towards the FIESP building in protest of cuts to public spending.Reuters
Protesters fought off police attacks.EFE
According to EFE, around 2,000 riot police were sent to control the protests.EFE
People observe a burning bus from a nearby bridge.Reuters