[JURIST] Tens of thousands of Russians returned to the streets [JURIST report] Saturday to demand the return of the Soviet system of state benefits. Protesters oppose a January 1 law that replaced the medical, housing and transportation benefits traditionally received by millions of Russian pensioners with cash payments. Opponents of the new law, including many Communists [political party website in Russian], say the payments are too meager to cover even basic needs. Many protesters are also calling for the ouster of President Vladimir Putin's government, after the Russian parliament rejected a motion of no-confidence Thursday. There were also counter-demonstrations in several centers supporting the changes. AP has more.