As is known, the Commission to study the facts and events that occurred in the Republic of Karakalpakstan in July 2022 and conduct an independent investigation on them began its work on 16 July 2022.

According to the Press Service of the Authorized Person of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights (Ombudsman), the main task of the Commission is to ensure human rights and freedoms, a comprehensive and objective study of events, as well as rechecking the information received and organizing its activities taking into account public opinion.

Initially, to study the opinion of the population, citizens were allowed to contact the call center by short number 1374 and directly to the headquarters of the Commission, then the telegram channel @independetuz_bot was launched, and applications were received electronically.

In addition to working with citizens’ appeals, the situation and events in the Republic of Karakalpakstan were investigated, and relevant information was obtained and analyzed. In particular, the Commission members visited several state bodies and agencies, social facilities, the Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, the Multidisciplinary Medical Center, military and departmental hospitals, buildings of law enforcement agencies, including the National Guard, the Nukus City Department of Internal Affairs, the North-Western Military District, as well as Nukus International Airport.

In addition, based on several appeals from citizens, members of the Commission conducted individual interviews with the main suspects in the events in Karakalpakstan, who are currently under investigation. Lists of defendants who regret their deeds and are in a difficult social situation were formed, and appropriate measures were taken to return them to their families.

To date, at the suggestion of the members of the Commission and the petition of the Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, the General Prosecutor’s Office has released 107 accused from custody based on a public guarantee since the measure of restraint in the form of detention was replaced with a measure of restraint in the form of house arrest during the name of the principles of humanism.

During the investigative process, such issues as the conditions of detention of the defendants, the non-use of torture, the provision of a lawyer were under constant control of an Independent Commission. Members of the Commission will also participate in court sessions as observers.

UzA