Spanish lawmakers pass amnesty bill for Catalan separatists

Spain’s Parliament approved on Thursday an amnesty bill aimed at forgiving crimes — both proven and alleged — committed by Catalan separatists during a chaotic attempt to hold an independence referendum in the region six years ago.

The bill passed with 178 votes in favor and 172 against. The plans to provide amnesty to Catalan separatists has been controversial, sparking far-right demonstrations late last year.