It's believed that in Russia, opposition doesn't exist. Whoever takes power suppresses dissidents for years. Should anyone dare to speak up, they either vanish or meet a mysterious end. There have been multiple instances under Putin's regime where the opposition has disappeared. Now, it's being said about Alexei Navalny, who is reportedly deceased.
The Infamous Jail,
Earlier rumblings surrounded Navalny, yet this time seems different due to his last known location: the Polar Wolf Penal Colony. Supporters claim it's been weeks since their last contact with him, now presumed to be held in this infamous district of Yamalo-Nenets—a place for Russia's most dangerous or unwanted by the state.
Compared to Nazi Camps
During World War II, Russia was accused of lumping enemies and civilians together in merciless labor camps. Within these Siberian-adjacent camps, the conditions were so brutal that detainees often succumbed. Identified as Gulags, these camps were shut down post-war but their spirit revived within the new Penal Colonies.
Source: aajtak
An Exhausting Journey
The Penal Colonies in Russia, over 800 in number, lie in icy remote regions with little to no special transit to reach them. Often anti-regime political prisoners end up there, where even the journey alone is a grueling ordeal. According to Amnesty International, the trek to the colony can take up a month.
Conditions Worsen near the Arctic
The journey, passing through trains, buses, and ice, is the beginning of many prisoners' health decline. Women face harsher conditions, with about 40 colonies set in Russia's frosty zones, where they become virtually isolated during travel.
Source: aajtak
A New Wave of Torment
Upon entry, Penal Colony prisoners face harsh new realities. Even in subzero temperatures, inmates are forced to walk barefoot with scant clothing. From 6 AM to 10 PM, they are only permitted to stand or walk with no rest, can't read or write, and have access to state-sponsored news alone on TV.
Separated by Crime Severity
Prisoners fall into categories based on crime severity. Those in less stringent colonies enjoy larger barracks, outdoor freedoms, and visitor rights, while others under special or strict regime exist under severe restrictions.
Source: aajtak
Navalny's Previous Confinement
Prior to Polar Wolf, Navalny was held closer to Moscow, from where he remained in communication with supporters. However, even then, conditions were dire. Navalny himself recounted last year compulsory daily 7-hour shifts on a sewing machine, coupled with endless hours of Russian television viewing.
Since all Russian prisoners are compelled to work, Penal Colony inmates often sew police uniforms. Effectively factories, the colonies provide limited hours for sleep in living zones; the rest is labor.
