MOSCOW. Nov 1 (Interfax) - The majority of Russians (56%) consider that the gun battles in Nalchik were proof of inadequate antiterrorist protection. Meanwhile, 30% of respondents in poll consider that the actions of the authorities and special forces were successful and effective.

The poll was conducted by the All-Russian Center for Public Opinion Studies (VTsIOM) on October 8 - 9 amongst 1,600 people in 153 communities in 46 Russian regions, territories and republics.

Moreover, 28% of respondents reckon the improvement in the work of law enforcement agencies is a result of actions taken after the terrorist attacks in Beslan and the Dubrovka theater center. A total of 8% of respondents are dissatisfied with the performance, while 53% have noticed little change. Respondents in the Southern Federal District said that nothing has changed more often than others (64%).

Every second Russian (49%) considers the Nalchik events as an attempt by Chechen terrorists and Wahhabites to widen the battle zone. Another 17% consider the events as a fight for power between local clans, with 8% saying that it was a provocation to discredit the new president of Kabardino-Balkaria.

A total of 6% said that it was a sudden uprising against corrupted authorities and law enforcement officers, which oppress local citizens, with 3% saying that it was a provocation staged by Russian special forces.