The monument to victims of political repressions has been destroyed in Samara. The monument was set up in Yury Gagarin Park 22 years ago. 

      According to a human rights activist, meetings in memory of victims of political repressions were annually held there on October 30. Not long ago the monument was demolished, leaving an empty site on its place.

      After the stir caused by the loss of the monument the authorities hastened to set the people at ease. They explained that a new monument is expected to replace the old one. 

      The sculpture Saviour by artist Ivan Melnikov was delivered to Samara on October 20, 2012, the municipal administration reports. The unveiling ceremony of the new memorial complex will take place on October 30, on the Day of Memory of victims of political repressions.

      Nevertheless, the story disturbed Samara dwellers. They say the authorities’ methods of work reminded of the Stalin’s power that built something new on ruins without discussing its grand schemes with common people.