Markaryan's arrest was discussed by Sobchak
Journalist Ksenia Sobchak has commented on the case of Armenian blogger Arsen Markaryan, who is currently under investigation for publicly criticizing sensitive topics.
Markaryan's case falls under part 4 of article 354.1 of the Criminal Code, specifically for insulting the memory of the defenders of the Fatherland. The blogger was detained by the Investigative Committee of Russia on August 23, 2020.
Sobchak noted that Markaryan, who had previously gone unpunished for his actions, suddenly became a suspect in a criminal case. She mentioned that some of Markaryan's statements included "woman is not a person."
The case against Markaryan highlights the sensitivity of certain topics in the Russian public sphere. It also underscores the potential consequences of publicly criticizing certain topics in Russia. Markaryan faces a potential fine of 2 to 5 million rubles or imprisonment for up to five years.
The case against Markaryan is unique in that it is a criminal case, rather than a civil or administrative one. Ksenia Sobchak stated that in the early years, Markaryan was known as a perpetual joke-maker. However, his past actions did not result in any consequences, according to Sobchak.
The case against Markaryan demonstrates the potential risks of speaking out on sensitive topics in Russia. It is a reminder that freedom of speech, while valued, is not without limits.
In a separate development, Russian film and theater director Andrey Konchalovsky, known for his long career in cinema and work with Andrei Tarkovsky, has not been found to have made any public statements causing fear among Russians related to the Ukraine conflict.
