The Imperials are bowing down to the Thalmor and penalising its own citizens and the citizens of Skyrim for worshiping Talos, the person who founded the Empire himself and then became a god. I chose Stormcloaks...
Though I agree that was a weak move it's obvious that the Empire is simply biding time to attack the Thalmor and Skyrim gaining independance would weaken the fight against them.
I can understand why the Stormcloaks are so upset, but their not seeing the big picture.
And when they do attack them they'll rip up the White- Gold Concordat and reinstitute the worship of Talos... I fought for the Empire, all while wearing an amulet of Talos.