Imprisoned Pussy Riot Members Sue Kremlin for $175,000
Two members of Pussy Riot are suing the Russian Government. The feminist, punk rock group members imprisoned after trying to perform their song "Mother of God, Drive Putin Out" in the Christ the Saviour Cathedral in February 2012.
Maria Alyokhina and Nadezhda Tolokonnikova have filed their case with the European Court of Human Rights against the country of Russia. They are seeking financial compensation, to the tune of 120,000 euros, plus 10,000 euros in court fees. That is about $175,00 USD total.
Considering the pair served 21 months in jail, Andrey Tolokonnikov, Nadezhda's father, believes they should have asked for more. "What can I say? Good girls! But, in my opinion, the requested amount is too small."
The staff of the cathedral stopped the song, and three out of five group members were arrested. Their two-year prison sentence was based on a charge of "hooliganism." They were also condemned by the Orthodox Church. They are arguing their imprisonment "amounted to torture."
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Their case will argue that Russia violated the European Convention of Human Rights articles. The articles prevent torture, allow for freedom of expression, security, liberty and a fair trial.
This article was originally published at http://www.thewire.com/global/2014/07/imprisoned-pussy-riot-members-sue-kremlin-for-175000/375227/
