SOUTH PARK - SOUTH PARK LAMBASTED IN RUSSIA, TOO

SOUTH PARK LAMBASTED IN RUSSIA, TOO

Moscow prosecutors have filed a "claim" against a Russian TV station over an episode of South Park following a protest by the Russian Union of Christians of Evangelical Faith. Reuters quoted Konstantin Bendas, leader of the group, as calling for a ban on the animated series because "it insults the feelings of religious believers and incites religious and national hatred." Unlike the U.S., where South Park airs on cable's Comedy Central network, South Park is carried by the over-the-air channel 2x2 in Moscow and St. Petersburg. "It's one thing if they are on cable TV and viewers pay money and make a conscious choice," Bandas said. "But young children should not be able to turn on the TV after school and watch this. They need to be defended."

08/09/2008