Dagestani historian links his dismissal with scientific activities

Khadji-Murad Donogo has suggested that his dismissal from the Dagestani National Museum was due to his scientific works and speeches in which he expressed his viewpoint that mismatched the official history. The persecution of a scientist for his scientific views is unacceptable, journalists believe.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that Khadji-Murad Donogo, a deputy director of the Dagestani National Museum, was forced to leave his post after the Association of Special Forces Veterans submitted a complaint against him to the head of the republic, Sergey Melikov, accusing the historian of nationalism.

"They disliked that I presented the policy of Peter the Great not like in Moscow textbooks; and that I praised Imam Shamil," the historian has stated.

There was no public support from the scientific historical community after the dismissal, Mr Donogo has emphasized. He intends to continue publishing his works.

The dismissal for views on history is contrary to the Constitution, Magomed Magomedov, a deputy editor-in-chief of the "Chernovik" (Draft) outlet, has pointed out. "The Constitution guarantees the freedom of thought and speech ... The history of Dagestan is part of the history of Russia, and, of course, it is not always convenient. But it should be accepted; mistakes and achievements should be analyzed; and we should move on," he has stated.