Paris:The French Senate has adopted a controversial bill, known as the "rioters-pay" bill, which aims to hold protesters accountable for damages caused during violent gatherings. This legislation seeks to ensure compensation for damage resulting from violence or destruction in public spaces.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the Senate passed the bill with a vote of 229 to 105 during an overnight session. The bill was initially proposed in response to the violence following Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League victory in May and was further shaped by incidents of vandalism and looting during protests on October 17.

The bill received widespread support from the Senate's right-wing majority but faced criticism from left-wing members, who argued it infringes on constitutionally protected rights such as freedom of assembly, freedom of expression, and the individualization of penalties. The legislation allows for individuals involved in violent gatherings to be held jointly liable for damages, even if they did not directly cause the destruction, with potential compensation reaching up to £10,000 ($11,000) per person.

Furthermore, the bill permits the seizure of portions of family allowances, housing aid, and France’s minimum-income benefit to recover owed damages. An approved amendment also grants authorities the power to request the removal of online content that could incite violence or insurrection, requiring social media platforms to comply within 24 hours or risk being blocked or delisted.

Additionally, the Senate has endorsed stricter security measures, including administrative bans on demonstrations, penalties preventing foreign nationals from entering France, harsher sentences, increased use of judicial drones and algorithmic video surveillance, and eviction from social housing for individuals identified as troublemakers. The bill now proceeds to the National Assembly, where it is expected to face political challenges that could complicate its passage into law.