The Ombudsman’s Office has commented on the allegations regarding the rights of certain persons of Armenian origin who have been deprived of liberty after their guilt in committing crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other grave crimes was proven in court.
This was reported to elchi by the Press Service of the Ombudsman’s Office.
It was stated that within the framework of the Ombudsman’s National Preventive Mechanism activities, meetings were held with these individuals, including Ruben Vardanyan, both during the preliminary investigation and court proceedings, as well as in the penitentiary institution after their conviction. The situation regarding the assurance of their rights, detention conditions, and treatment has been continuously monitored.
It was noted that the monitoring was carried out in accordance with international standards. During the visits, these individuals, including Ruben Vardanyan, had their rights explained to them in their native language, their health was checked by a doctor member of the National Preventive Group, and various publications, legislative acts, and fiction books were provided according to their requests.
According to the information, the convicts have the opportunity to contact the Ombudsman’s 916 Call Center, and the received requests have been reviewed in accordance with the legislation.
The Ombudsman’s Office noted that the conditions in the facilities where these persons are held meet modern standards, and no discrimination is allowed in their treatment. Their rights to engage in sports, organize walks and leisure time, access information, and maintain telephone contact with family members are ensured.
It was stated that even when there were no funds in their accounts upon transfer to penitentiary institutions, their telephone conversations with family members and other opportunities were not restricted.
It was also noted that the convicts’ requests regarding notary and medical services have been fulfilled in accordance with the legislation. Finally, it was reported that Arayik Harutyunyan’s request regarding notary services was fulfilled, and this process was observed on-site by members of the Ombudsman’s National Preventive Group.
The statement emphasized that the requests made by these individuals and their lawyers to state bodies, including those for additional medical examinations and additional telephone conversations with family members, have been fulfilled.
Based on the results of the monitoring and visits, the Ombudsman’s Office stated that the rights of the persons convicted of committing grave crimes are ensured without any discrimination.
It was noted that the allegations spread on websites on behalf of these individuals are baseless, do not reflect the truth, and serve biased political purposes.