Social media users argue about responsibility of fashion show organizers in Makhachkala

When commenting on the graduation fashion show of students of a specialized art school in Makhachkala, some Instagram* users stated that no blasphemy should go unpunished, and the punishment for it is provided for by the law. Their opponents argue that the use of religious symbols may not be regarded as an insult to believers.

The “Caucasian Knot” has reported that on June 25, a video from a fashion show was posted on the Internet, in which some models were wearing outfits looking like the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In their comments, some social media users demanded to dismiss the administration of the art school for insulting the feelings of believers. The art school administration explained that the theatrical costume had nothing to do with religious symbols.

Religious figures said they would be more involved with the youth affairs amid the fashion show scandal. “We will meet students to ensure that they respect other religions and understand what is allowed and what is not allowed,” Hieromonk Siluan, Secretary of the Makhachkala Diocese, said in a video posted on the Telegram channel of the Dagestani Ministry of Culture.

Some Instagram* users were outraged that young women in hijabs watched the fashion show and didn’t leave.

Other social media users stood up for students. “This is the art school, and they realized their projects while working on those images,” noted user zunzul2000.

*On March 21, 2022, the Tverskoi Court of Moscow banned the activities in Russia of the Meta Company, owning the Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, in connection with extremist activities.