In the letter, Smolyakova alerts authorities to the potentially illegal nature of the decree ordering the demolition, observing: ‘It is also worth noting that in the matter of our demolition there are no state or public needs for local authorities to interfere [with private property] … We are amazed by this attitude towards private property rights, towards human life, towards older people.’101 Smolyakova’s letter also alleges that improper methods had been used by the developer and city administration in order to pressure residents. She claims that vacated apartments were destroyed, bringing the housing complex into an ‘unusable condition’; her apartment was broken into and property stolen;102 she was sent videos and text messages documenting the forced eviction of other residents by police, which she perceived as a threat by the developer; pressure was placed on residents to leave by the local hokim who is alleged to have warned that those who resist will receive the lowest market price possible; and pressure was placed by the developer on Smolyakova to accept US$37,000 in compensation. Image: Photo sent to Svetlana Smolyakova by the developer prior she finally agreed to ‘sell’ her property Source: Svetlana Smolyakova 36 A False Sense of Legality Image: Retired teacher Svetlana Smolyakova Source: Svetlana Smolyakova In the letter, Smolyakova personally appeals for justice: ‘My apartment … things, library and photographs are my only property and family memory. This is an apartment honestly acquired by the teachers’ work. My husband and I have been teachers all our lives. We have almost 100 years of combined experience! For a whole century we tirelessly served our Motherland. And finally, the only thing I ask from the state is law and justice. Help us!!!’103