Open Letter / Appeal from the World Council of Tatars to the Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, regarding the situation of political prisoner Azat Miftakhov

Appeal

Dear Rustam Nurgaliyevich,

On behalf of the Global Council of Tatars, we are addressing you regarding the case of our compatriot, the young mathematician Azat Miftakhov, who, in our firm belief, has become a victim of unjust and politically motivated persecution.

Today, this is no longer only about the fate of one individual. It is about whether Tatarstan is capable of protecting its own son when he faces clear injustice and unchecked arbitrariness. Silence in such situations is perceived as consent and complicity.

Azat Miftakhov is a talented scientist with an active civic position and certainly not a criminal. Yet instead of respect for his intellect and human dignity, the state machine has for years subjected him to pressure, isolation, and humiliation. We cannot exclude that this treatment is also connected to his national origin. Particular outrage is caused by his transfer to Penal Colony IK-18 beyond the Arctic Circle — effectively one of the harshest and most inhumane prison conditions possible, thousands of kilometers away from his family and home.

We consider it unacceptable that a Tatar, a scientist, and our compatriot should be subjected to such degrading treatment while the leadership of the republic prefers to remain silent. The law explicitly requires that prisoners be held as close as possible to their place of residence. Ignoring this requirement constitutes a deliberate violation not only of the principles of humanity (if such principles still function in the country at all), but also of the very letter of the law itself.

Tatars around the world — and not only Tatars — are closely following this situation. Public concern continues to grow. In the end, people will remember not the soulless ceremonial events, sabantuys, or official reports, but those who demonstrated courage and defended the honor of their nation.

Therefore, we appeal to you to use all available political, administrative, and public resources to prevent Azat Miftakhov’s transfer to IK-18, ensure respect for his legal rights, and seek his relocation as close as possible to his home and family.

We believe it is important to publicly state a clear position regarding this injustice.

History has repeatedly shown that political circumstances pass, while the attitude toward one’s own people and the ability to protect them remain forever. It is by such actions that future generations judge people. We appeal to your conscience and courage. As the well-known Tatar wisdom says: “İl терәге — ир, ир терәге — ил” (“The support of the people is the man, and the support of the man is the people.”)

With respect,

Members of the Global Council of Tatars