Human rights defenders plan to hold action in memory of Markelov, despite refusal of Moscow Mayoralty

Today, the press service of the Mayor and Government of Russian capital has reported that the city authorities are ready to sanction a demonstration in memory of lawyer Stanislav Markelov and journalist Anastasia Baburova assassinated a year ago, if the lodge an application according to the law

However, human rights activists insist that they did not break any legislation and are going to hold the action in any case.

The above press service told the "Interfax": "The answer of the government of the city gave a clear reason of the refusal - too early submission of application by the organizers. They were offered to do it again as required, saying that the system of receiving applications was at work in the New Year holidays. However, no document was submitted."

The authorities have warned that any attempt to hold a non-authorized public action will be stopped by law enforcers in accordance with the current legislation.

The "Grani.Ru" reports that Liudmila Alekseeva, head of the Moscow Helsinki Group, has stated today that the march in memory of Stanislav Markelov and Anastasia Baburova assassinated in January 2009 will takes place irrespective of the decision of Moscow authorities.