Russian activist groups to sue Madonna over support for gay rights

The nine-strong group wants millions of dollars in reparation .

The anti-gay movement is strong in Russia with a St Petersburg law being passed in February that makes it illegal to promote homosexuality to those under 12.

The activists claim there were young children at Madonna’ August 9 concert where the singer asked fans to raise their hands to show the pink armbands in support of gays and lesbians that were distributed among the audience.

She also stomped on an Orthodox cross.

Madonna seems to be a divisive topic in Russia these days.

She recently incurred the wrath of conservative Russians with her support for Pussy Riot.

Three members of the punk band were last week sentenced to two years in prison for a protest inside Moscow's main cathedral against Vladimir Putin and his relationship with the Russian Orthodox Church.

Madonna told the audience what she thought of the group’s treatment during her concerts in St. Petersburg and Moscow.

Then, when the verdict was issued, Madonna called on "all those who love freedom to condemn this unjust punishment."