The Legislative Chamber of Uzbekistan's Oliy Majlis has passed in the second reading a bill aimed at protecting children from all forms of violence. The bill, initiated by the Social Democratic Party 'Adolat' faction, was adopted in the first reading on September 29.
According to reports, during the preparation of the bill for the second reading, its provisions were discussed with the participation of industry experts, deputies, and public representatives. Proposals received during broad public discussion were studied by experts, and substantiated ones were taken into account in refining the draft.
In the version prepared for the second reading, the document specifies punishment of up to 25 years or life imprisonment for crimes involving rape and violent unnatural satisfaction of sexual needs against children under 14. It also restricts the application of certain provisions on conditional sentencing and parole for intentional crimes resulting in the death of a child.
The draft prepared for the second reading also introduces a new norm related to intentional infliction of severe or moderate bodily injury against minors. Such actions are defined as an aggravating circumstance. Additionally, norms introduced into the Criminal Procedure Code clarify the procedures for providing legal aid at state expense to minors affected by sexual violence. The mandatory video recording of the interrogation of minor witnesses is established, and provisions regarding the participation of a representative of the guardianship and trusteeship body have been improved.
Furthermore, norms related to protection from information prohibited for distribution among children, as well as offenses related to non-execution or obstruction of execution of decisions of commissions on children's affairs, have been clarified. Amendments to the Law 'On Education' have also been improved taking into account possible practical situations.
Discussions on strengthening legislation are taking place against the backdrop of a high-profile case of sexual violence against a 5-year-old girl at a state kindergarten in Uchkurgan district of Namangan region. On September 12, the district police investigation department opened a criminal case under Part 4 of Article 118 of the Criminal Code (rape of a person under fourteen). A kindergarten employee, K.M., was detained on suspicion of committing the crime, and a preventive measure in the form of detention was applied.
According to the girl's mother, the alleged violence may have been committed multiple times. She said that after the incident, the child became very fearful and is even afraid to pass by the kindergarten.
On September 27, the head of the Presidential Administration, Saida Mirziyoyeva, responded to the incident. According to her, not only those guilty of the crime, but also those who 'allowed this, showed negligence and failed to protect the child' should be punished. Saida Mirziyoyeva also announced that proposals are being prepared to introduce amendments to legislation aimed at 'maximally strengthening responsibility' for such crimes.
Source: www.gazeta.uz