Paris, 01 June (HS): The Bureau of Human Rights and Justice (BHRJ) has strongly condemned the widespread violence and civil unrest that erupted across France following Paris Saint-Germain's UEFA Champions League victory celebrations, calling for a comprehensive overhaul of the country's public order strategy and the adoption of a Zero Tolerance security doctrine.

According to figures released by French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, overnight disturbances led to 780 arrests across the country. The violence spread to 71 municipalities and resulted in injuries to 57 security personnel and 219 participants. Authorities also confirmed one fatality, while several serious stabbing incidents were reported in Paris.

In a statement issued on Sunday, BHRJ President Dipan Mitra rejected suggestions that the incidents were spontaneous reactions by football supporters.

This is not the behaviour of celebratory fans; it is a coordinated and pre-planned attack on public order, Mitra said. We witnessed a similar pattern of violence during previous celebrations. What we are seeing is no longer an isolated incident but a recurring crisis that poses a serious challenge to the long-term security and stability of the French Republic.

Mitra expressed concern that major sporting victories in France have increasingly become associated with large-scale unrest, property damage and attacks on law enforcement personnel.

The fact that a sporting victory can repeatedly trigger nationwide riots should alarm policymakers and security agencies alike. If firm control is not established now, the social and economic costs in the future may be far greater, he added.

The human rights organisation said the latest disturbances demonstrated the inability of existing security arrangements to effectively manage large public gatherings linked to high-profile sporting events.

In response, the BHRJ urged the French government and law enforcement authorities to adopt a stricter preventive approach to crowd management and public security.

The organisation called for the immediate implementation of a Zero Tolerance doctrine aimed at preventing violence before it escalates, strengthening law enforcement capabilities, and ensuring accountability for individuals involved in rioting, vandalism and attacks on public officials.

BHRJ stated that while peaceful celebrations are a legitimate expression of public enthusiasm, violence, intimidation and destruction of public property cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.

The organisation further urged French authorities to conduct a thorough review of recent security failures and develop a long-term strategy to prevent recurring unrest during major national events.

Paris Saint-Germain's historic Champions League triumph had sparked celebrations across France, but the festivities were overshadowed by clashes, vandalism and violent incidents reported in several cities.

Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar