Representatives of several Russian-based Bitcoin websites petitioned a government ban, despite attempts by government officials to block their appeals.
In January, Russia's Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media blacklisted seven Bitcoin sites. Among them were bitcoin.org, as well as several local sites. No specific reason was provided by the agency for the ban. However, the latest proposal to ban Bitcoin in the country did stipulate that disseminating information relating to the dealing of digital currency is also prohibited and punishable by fine.
According to Forklog, representatives from BTCsec.com told a judge that Bitcoin has not yet been banned in the country, and therefore, such sites should not be blocked. Russia's Finance Minister is aiming to have the proposed ban take effect this year. The Ministry of Economic Development opposes the bill, though not necessarily on the grounds of defending Bitcoin.
Representatives from bitcoinconf.ru argued that their site is not related to cryptocurrency per se, but rather publishes developments related to the Moscow Bitcoin conference.
The next hearings on the matter will take place on May 15.
