A high-ranking official from the Council for the Promotion of Civil Society and Human Rights has reported that video communications enabling prisoners to talk with their families were halted in colonies across Russia. This update was shared on her Telegram channel.
The report states that a directive signed by Alexander Khabarov, the Deputy Director of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia, ordered an immediate cessation of video communication services for inmates. The stated aim of the measure is to prevent convicts from engaging in illegal activities that could threaten public order or security.
According to the official, the directive requires institutions to close these connections and to implement the change promptly. She notes that efforts were then made to seek guidance and potential resolution from the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation.
On January 17, a Kremlin spokesperson indicated that authorities are evaluating possibilities for amnesty for some convicted women. The spokesperson said officials are actively exploring legal avenues and practical methods to address this issue while ensuring compliance with the law and public safety considerations.
In earlier developments, the same official labeled a court decision to arrest Blinovskaya as oppressive, highlighting concern over the severity of punitive measures in that case and calling for careful consideration of due process and proportionality.