A State Duma deputy, Yevgeny Markov, has put forward a proposal to impose penalties on Russian citizens who misuse their right to file complaints with state institutions. The initiative was outlined in a letter sent to Igor Krasnov, the Prosecutor General of the Russian Federation. The document referenced has been reported by TASS.
Markov asserts that many official applications contain false information and that some individuals use formal complaints as a tool to harm others. He argues that this behavior undermines trust in public institutions and wastes the time of officials who must respond to such appeals. The deputy stresses that the problem is not isolated to a single region but appears across several agencies, affecting the efficiency of the government’s operations. The tone of the proposal suggests a move to deter frivolous or malicious filings while preserving the right of citizens to seek redress when legitimate concerns exist. (TASS)
As an example, Markov pointed to cases where complaints were filed against teachers on the basis of a single remark or action. He claimed that such accusations can disrupt the dynamics within classrooms and impede the educational process. The deputy highlighted the potential harm to teachers who may face reputational damage or unnecessary investigations due to unfounded claims. The aim, he says, is to ensure that complaints reflect genuine concerns and are supported by verifiable information. (TASS)
According to the author of the initiative, the harmed party often bears the burden of proof, making it difficult to demonstrate that a complaint was filed in bad faith. In response, Markov announced his intention to draft amendments to administrative legislation. These changes would introduce clear legal liability for individuals who submit objections without a legitimate basis and without adequate supporting evidence. The proposal envisions penalties that would deter abuse while still protecting those rights that are legitimately exercised by citizens. (TASS)
In the letter, the deputy urged the Attorney General to assess the relevance of the proposed legislative changes and to consider how they could be implemented in practice. He emphasized the importance of balancing accountability with the fundamental right to petition public authorities, noting that the reform could help streamline administrative processes and reduce needless reviews. (TASS)
Earlier in the year, another State Duma deputy, Anton Nemkin, floated a different idea focused on public administration. Nemkin proposed introducing a mandatory digital application process for students in information technology disciplines, funded by the federal budget. The proposal envisions a streamlined pathway for IT students to engage with public institutions, aiming to improve digital literacy and align education with government needs. (TASS)