Human Lives Human Rights: Calls for accountability resonate following the dispersal of a largely peaceful demonstration in Baymak, Republic of Bashkortostan, southern Russia, amid protests over the sentencing of civil activist Fail Alsynov and subsequent criminal proceedings against demonstrators.
“Evidence suggests excessive force was employed against protesters, undermining their right to peaceful assembly,” remarked a human rights advocate. “The clashes appear to have been sparked by heavy-handed police tactics, including the use of tear gas, met with protesters’ resistance in the form of snowballs.”
“The criminal charges against protesters, labeled as mass riots, lack merit and demand a thorough, impartial investigation into police conduct,” the advocate added, stressing the need for the immediate release of wrongfully detained individuals.
Background:
Mass demonstrations erupted on 15 January 2024 in support of Fail Alsynov, convicted of ‘inciting ethnic hatred’ and sentenced to four years in a penal colony. Escalating tensions near the courthouse led to arrests and confrontations, with riot police reportedly resorting to baton charges against a crowd of thousands. Responding to police actions, protesters engaged in symbolic resistance, leading to clashes and the use of tear gas and stun grenades.
Subsequently, a criminal case was initiated under Russia’s Criminal Code, leading to several individuals being subjected to administrative arrest under restrictive assembly laws. The events underscore the urgent need for accountability and respect for the right to peaceful protest in Russia.
