Russian postal workers to let police open mail

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MOSCOW — The Russian government has issued an order telling postal workers that police and security agents have a right to open mail, causing alarm among rights advocates who fear a return to the Soviet-era tactics of the KGB.

The Communications Ministry said the order, which went into effect Tuesday, does not expand the powers of investigators, since they still need to obtain a court's permission as required by law if they want to open letters or packages.

But rights advocates said the order is unconstitutional because it does not mention the need for court permission. The document, filling two pages in small print, explains in detail to postal workers that investigators have access to the mail and postal data bases, and can demand a separate work space within post offices.

Critics said the new order is dangerous because it has the potential to further embolden Russia's security services, who have grown increasingly powerful under Vladimir Putin, the former president who is now prime minister.

The Moscow Helsinki Group and other prominent rights groups sent a letter to the Justice Ministry saying that the order directly contradicts the constitution and federal laws because it infringes on the right to privacy. The letter demanded the order be changed.

The Communications Ministry defended the order.

"This document does not expand the power of the security agencies conducting investigations ... and in no way violates the rights of postal service employees or human rights," ministry spokeswoman Yulia Bulankina said in a written statement.

The ministry then posted a document on its Web site spelling out under what conditions investigators can open mail and making clear that they need a court order.

Viktor Parshutkin, a lawyer specializing in criminal law, said the order was a clear violation of the constitution. Security agents often are unable to present the evidence necessary to get a court order, he said, suggesting that some may prefer to try to skirt the law.

"The security agencies are among the least controlled groups in Russia," Parshutkin said. "They are some of the most aggressive and irresponsible people, and present a danger to civil society."

Many Russians were not aware of the recent order. Some said they were outraged, but others were more blase, saying they assumed their personal information was easily accessible already.

"I'm more concerned about how low my pension is and the high cost of medicine," said Valentina, an 82-year-old retired teacher. "If they want to look in my mail, I have nothing to hide."