"Unauthorized Construction"

Today's Russian leaders just don't have Stalin's dramatic flair when it comes to things like this. Where are the explosions and the pools to replace this houses of worship/opiate of the people factories? (Ern)

Forum 18 reports a recent trend in local authorities across Russia calling for the demolition of certain churches and mosques based on technical reasons of "unauthorized construction" and fire safety, despite a lack of a clear motive. Religious congregations of various confessions, in places as far apart as Abakan, Kirovo-Chepetsk, Kaluga and Tyumen (click for maps) have all encountered such problems, resulting in fines, closure, and in some cases demolition notices. In at least one case, the Russian Supreme Court has upheld the demolition notices.