Deputies from Russia’s ruling United Russia party have proposed to toughen punishment for protest organizers and participants. The new punishment for violations during protest actions can include bigger fines and even sentencing of violators to community service.

      According to proposal, the maximum fine for for the administrative offense would increase from 2,000 rubles ($70) to 100,000 rubles ($3,300). The administrative arrest - currently up to 15 days in jail - would be replaced by community service with terms from 20 to 200 hours. Such measures were given utterance by Alexander Sidyakin, the author of the proposal and the United Russia party member. It should be pointed out that fines will be also imposed for preventing authorized protest actions, as well as compulsion to participating in meetings. 

      The bill's author explains his proposal by the concern for common citizens who "aren't pleased with holding unathorized protest actions near their houses". He also says it is very important to add community service as a punishment. "If violators receive substantial fines and are put to work, there would be no false illusions concerning the pseudo heroism of detainee", he said. 

Sources: RIA Novosti Lenta.ru RBC Image: nr2ru.com