Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — During the latest plenary session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, a draft law titled "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Connection with the Adoption of the New Edition of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan" was approved.

The document introduces amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code and the Law "On Courts" aimed at reinforcing guarantees for the protection of citizens’ rights. Key provisions of the bill include:

A person accused of committing a crime is presumed innocent until their guilt is proven in an open court hearing conducted in accordance with the law and confirmed by a final court verdict.

Suspects, defendants, and accused persons are guaranteed the right to fully defend their rights, with any irreparable doubts regarding their guilt interpreted in their favor.

Suspects, defendants, or accused persons are not required to prove their innocence and may exercise their right to remain silent at any time.

No one can be compelled to testify against themselves or their close relatives. Moreover, an admission of guilt cannot serve as the sole basis for a conviction or sentence.

It is specifically emphasized that a citizen’s criminal record and its associated legal consequences must not lead to restrictions on the rights of their relatives.

The adoption of this bill is aimed at ensuring the strict implementation of the updated Constitution, realizing the priority principles enshrined within it in the spirit of the "New Uzbekistan" concept, and strengthening citizens’ rights to judicial protection.

The draft law was approved by deputies in its second reading.