France's National Assembly approves deprivation of citizenship of convicted terrorists

PARIS, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The deputies of the French National Assembly voted Tuesday night in favor of a constitutional reform that would allow people convicted of terrorism to be stripped of their French citizenship under certain circumstances.

France's lower house passed the bill with 162 deputies in favor, 148 votes against and 22 abstentions, Le Figaro reported.

According to the bill, the deprivation (of citizenship) is "an additional penalty imposed by a criminal judge" which is applicable for "crimes violation fundamental interests of the Nation" or terrorist crimes.

Instead of deprivation of citizenship, the judge could also sentence a penalty of deprivation of "citizenship related rights", such as civil or civic rights to vote, to be elected, to work as public servant, Le Figaro added.

Monday night, the National Assembly already voted for the government's constitution reform aiming at making easier to impose a state of emergency despite rising critics on fears to weaken citizens' rights and freedom.