Judge rules Pussy Riot members to remain jailed until trial

A Russian judge has ruled that three members of the punk rock protest group Pussy Riot are to remain in custody until their trial, set for June of this year. The three women are facing charges of hooliganism for performing a punk song in Moscow’s Christ the Savior Cathedral earlier this year.

Russian news agency Ria Novosti reports that the song, called Holy Shit, included lyrics such as “Holy Mother, Blessed Virgin, chase Putin out”. Footage of the incident was captured and added to the band’s YouTube channel:

The group, a feminist band with often provocative anti-Putin lyrics, has been tapping into a growing discontent among Russian youth and have recently staged a number of risque performances. Those arrested have protested their innocence of any criminal activity:

Their case has been galvanizing support among Russian youths. Between 20 and 30 people protesting their detention reportedly arrested outside Moscow’s Tagansky Court on Thursday. Russia Today gave details of the protest:

The unauthorized demo held by Pussy Riot supporters outside the court turned into an improvised performance as protesters arrived in costumes with balloons and musical instruments, and prepared to sing and recite poetry.

The keenest Pussy Riot supporters tried to repeat the famed notorious look of the punk band members. Some cut holes in colorful hats, turning them into masks; others wore similar vivid dresses with bright tights. Several enthusiastic activists even threw flares at police, and were promptly detained.

From : Russia Today

Their case has also rallied international support, with a benefit gig organized in London, England promising to channel all proceeds to a defense fund for the women. A rally to support the group is also planned for Friday in Melbourne, Australia.