Society news

According to the press service of the Tashkent city Internal Affairs Department, a person suspected of drug trafficking has been detained. This was reported by Upl.uz. In cooperation with the employees of the internal affairs bodies and the State Security Service, a special operational event was held in the Mirzo Ulugbek district. During the event, a 19-year-old citizen living in the city of Gazalkent, which is part of the Bostanliq district of Tashkent region, was arrested. Approximately 200 grams of heroin were found from him. The suspect admitted that narcotic substances were stored in his rented residence and in his personal house in Gazalkent. A total of 2.31 kilograms of narcotic substances belonging to him were identified and confiscated. The total value of these substances amounts to 1 billion 390 million soums. A criminal case has been initiated under Article 273, part five of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan regarding this case. This article refers to the illegal production, purchase, storage, and other actions aimed at selling narcotic substances. The suspect may face a penalty of up to 20 years of imprisonment. The internal affairs bodies and security services continue to fight against narcotic substances and are taking strict measures against such crimes.

According to the press service of the Tashkent region IIBB YHXB, a person wanted was detained in the Bekabad district. This was reported by Upl.uz. As part of the "Safe and Healthy Country" preventive measures, traffic safety officers stopped a pedestrian born in 1993 in the district. It was found that this person violated traffic rules. When the person was identified, it became known that he was wanted. A criminal case has been initiated against this person by the Tashkent regional prosecutor's office under the article "Evasion of taxes or mandatory payments" of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The maximum penalty for this crime includes up to five years of imprisonment. The wanted citizen was detained and taken to the Bekabad district IIB. Currently, investigative actions are being carried out.

The press service of O'zenergoinspektsiya reported that illegal use of natural gas was detected. This was reported by Upl.uz. In Bukhara region, O'zenergoinspektsiya, the regional prosecutor's office, and employees of the "Hududgaz Bukhara" gas supply organization conducted joint monitoring activities. During the events, the textile enterprise owned by "Sh. T. L." LLC in Bukhara city was inspected. As a result of the inspection, it was found that external interference was applied to the natural gas consumption measuring device of this enterprise, which led to a decrease in the readings. According to preliminary calculations, the amount of damage totals 1 billion 980 million soums. Currently, preliminary investigative actions are being carried out by law enforcement agencies. Responsible individuals of the enterprise may face up to 15 years of imprisonment under Article 177, Part 4 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which pertains to theft. This situation is being seriously monitored within the framework of the legislation.

The press service of the Traffic Safety Department of the Main Department of Internal Affairs of Bukhara region reported that a video showing a driver of a "Damas" vehicle seriously violating traffic rules has spread on social networks. This was reported by Upl.uz. This driver was moving in the opposite direction on a road designated for traffic in the Bukhara region and voluntarily removed the state registration plates. Additionally, the front window of his vehicle was tinted and a siren was installed. Internal affairs officers quickly identified the offender and placed the vehicle in the impound lot. An administrative report was drawn up for all identified violations. The driver was fined 2 points for driving in the opposite direction, 1 point for driving without registration plates, 0.5 points for the tinted front window, and another 0.5 points for having a siren installed. These measures are aimed at ensuring road traffic safety and preventing violations.

In the first six months of 2025, Uzbekistan's judicial system held more than 6000 citizens accountable for cases related to violence, domestic violence, and the dissemination of information that humiliates honor and dignity. This was reported by Upl.uz. This information was announced within the framework of the implementation of laws aimed at strengthening the protection of women and children, adopted in April 2023. According to the official statement of the press secretary of the Supreme Court, Aziz Abidov, courts across the country reviewed numerous cases under the new laws. The largest portion of these cases, specifically 4952 instances, were examined under Article 59-2 of the Code of Administrative Responsibility — concerning domestic violence. As a result of these cases, 3200 individuals were fined, and 1752 people were administratively detained. Criminal liability for domestic violence committed under aggravating circumstances or repeatedly was applied to 231 individuals in accordance with Article 126-1. Of these, 65 were deprived of liberty, while 166 were punished with other non-custodial measures. Additionally, cases related to sexual harassment are being actively reviewed. Under Article 41-1 of the Code of Administrative Responsibility, 986 individuals were held accountable. Of these, 628 were administratively detained, and 358 were fined. Courts also reviewed criminal cases related to the disclosure of personal information and the humiliation of a person's honor and dignity. Ninety-nine individuals were prosecuted under Article 141-3 of the Criminal Code. Of these, 24 were deprived of liberty, while 75 were subjected to other types of punishment. The figures for the first half of 2025 continue the trend observed since the laws came into effect in April 2023. For comparison, in the ten months of 2024, 15,826 sentences were issued for domestic violence, while in 2023, 666 individuals were prosecuted for sexual harassment. However, there are concerns regarding the application of these laws in the academic environment. A study conducted by scholars Zayniddin Shamsidinov and Utkirbek Kholmirzaev from Tashkent State University of Law found instances where norms related to domestic violence were sometimes used to pressure victims or to coerce them into official reconciliation with the aggressor. To monitor the implementation of laws protecting women and children from violence, a special committee was established in the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan. This committee is tasked not only with overseeing the application of laws but also with developing proposals for further improving legislation in the field.

The Chilonzor district court's panel of judges issued a verdict on August 4, 2025, against the management of the "Pr premier-avto" car dealership. This was reported by Upl.uz. The company was accused of defrauding more than 150 citizens of over 2.5 billion soums, and taking into account other circumstances during the trial, it was determined that the total damage amounted to 5 billion soums. "Pr premier-avto" was registered in 2022 for the wholesale trade of passenger cars and motor vehicles. To instill confidence in customers, the company promised to deliver cars within a period of 1.5 to 3 months and emphasized that there was an official contract with "Uzavtosanoat" joint-stock company. However, according to the investigation results, this information was not accurate. This scheme attracted buyers with favorable conditions, and many made advance payments for several vehicles. The investigation conducted by law enforcement agencies revealed that the company's activities were not limited to passenger cars but also included the sale of trucks. In court, one of the victims, Samariddin Abdusalimov, stated that he made the initial payment for the car through a bank with an 8% annual interest rate, and was promised to receive the car within two months, but delays occurred due to supply issues, ultimately leading to the suspension of the dealership's operations. Another victim from Bukhara, Avaz Toshtemirov, was supposed to receive the car within 90 days after paying the full price, but there was no communication after the deadline. Initially, individual complaints from citizens did not yield results. The criminal case was opened after a complaint was filed with the Minister of Internal Affairs. The court heard the testimonies of 130 out of more than 150 victims and found the defendants guilty under Article 168, Part 4, Clauses "a" and "v" of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan (fraud in a very large amount). The founder and director of the dealership, Sh.M., was sentenced to five years in prison. His two accomplices, D.O. and M.A., were sentenced to six and eight years, respectively. All convicts will serve their sentences in a general regime colony. The court ruled to fully recover the material damages inflicted on the victims. Frauds in car sales are one of the widespread problems in Uzbekistan. In March 2024, a similar scheme was reported involving the owners of another car dealership in the capital, who defrauded 74 citizens of 6.1 billion soums, and they were arrested. This company also promised to deliver cars within three months.

Uzbek citizens are returning to their homeland while being stranded abroad under difficult circumstances, reports the press service of the Migration Agency. This was reported by Upl.uz. The Migration Agency announced the launch of a charity campaign called "Return to the Homeland." Within the framework of this campaign, assistance is being provided to Uzbek citizens who are in difficult life situations abroad. In this regard, on August 4 of this year, at approximately 23:30, a group of our compatriots arrived from Turkey at the Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport. A. Khodzhimatov from Fergana region said: “I was left unemployed, broke, and without help in Turkey. I wanted to return home, but I had no opportunity. After learning about the charity campaign, I contacted the Migration Agency's representative office in Turkey. My situation was immediately assessed, and assistance was provided for my return.” During the reception of returning citizens, their physical and mental conditions were checked by specialists. The state is providing them with free medical services, legal advice, and psychological support. This initiative is considered an important step aimed at assisting our compatriots in difficult situations and facilitating their reintegration into society.

The press service of the Tashkent city department has published statistical data on the seizure of banned items that can be used as weapons. This was reported by Upl.uz. It was noted that a preventive measure called "TIG" was conducted in Tashkent city for 21 days. During the event, pedestrians and drivers were subjected to personal checks. Citizens were checked for the presence of banned items that could be used as cold weapons. As a result, a total of 1,631 offenders were identified, and a total of 1,715 types of banned items were confiscated from them. In particular, 1,614 knives, 17 brass knuckles, 19 sticks, 7 pneumatic weapons, 2 electroshock devices, and other items were found. The department emphasized that carrying such items leads to administrative liability. The fine amounts range from 1 to 5 basic calculation amounts, which is equivalent to 412,000 to 2,060,000 soums. Citizens are requested to comply with legal requirements and restrictions.

The press service of the Fergana region Internal Affairs Department has published information. This was reported by Upl.uz. Reports circulated on social media about a dispute between two men over a parking space in the city of Kokand. Internal Affairs officers investigated the situation and took action against the individuals who violated the law. It was revealed that this incident occurred on August 5 of this year in the "Obod" neighborhood of Kokand. The disagreement that arose between the two men escalated from a simple argument to a physical confrontation. As a result, the lawbreakers inflicted bodily harm on each other. Administrative protocols were formalized against two individuals based on the articles "Infliction of minor bodily harm" and "Petty hooliganism" of the Administrative Responsibility Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The case has been sent to court and is being reviewed for the imposition of appropriate penalties

Important changes aimed at strengthening the mechanisms for the protection of children's rights are being implemented in Uzbekistan's legislative system. This was reported by Upl.uz. The draft law presented by the deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and accepted in the first reading provides for the introduction of administrative liability for individuals who have not fully or adequately fulfilled the duties of guardianship and sponsorship. This initiative is an important part of reforming the social protection system. According to the draft law, individuals previously removed from guardianship or sponsorship duties will be prohibited from adopting children for life and will not be appointed to these positions in the future. In the new system, the National Social Protection Agency will play a central role. This agency and its regional divisions will be responsible for identifying orphans and children deprived of parental care, maintaining their records, and ensuring alternative educational environments. Additionally, the reform framework envisions updates to notarial activities. From now on, notaries will be required to provide information to the "Human" social services centers regarding all applications related to adoption, guardianship, or sponsorship. This measure aims to increase the transparency of processes and establish additional oversight over processes related to children's fates. In order to strengthen the protection of children's rights, amendments have previously been made to the criminal and criminal procedural codes, and penalties for acts of violence against children have been intensified. This comprehensive approach serves not only to punish violations but also to prevent them and to foster a strict attitude towards disrespect for children's rights in society. Within the framework of the new system, the authority to appoint guardians and sponsors is planned to be transferred from governors to the directors of the "Human" social services centers. This will increase responsibility and allow for more effective organization of services. Overall, the ongoing reforms are aimed at ensuring systematic and effective changes in the field of protecting children's rights.

A research aimed at the comprehensive study of the food habits of the population is being conducted in the Republic of Uzbekistan. This was reported by Upl.uz. This project serves to develop a new strategy in the field of public health strengthening. Launched in collaboration with the International ISCAD Center and the Delivery Unit of the Strategic Reforms Agency, the project covers the entire territory of the country and aims to create a scientific basis for future state programs. The relevance of this initiative has been confirmed by previous monitoring results. The STEPS studies conducted by the World Health Organization in 2014 and 2019 showed that there are negative trends in the diet of the population of Uzbekistan. For example, the share of citizens consuming salt above the norm increased from 15.6 percent to 36.6 percent. At the same time, 67.2 percent of respondents did not include the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables in their daily diet. Experts believe that these factors are directly related to the increase in cases of overweight and arterial hypertension. In such a situation, there is a need for a systematic transition to a healthy and balanced nutrition model. The internationally recognized KAP Survey methodology is being used for data collection. This method allows for the assessment of the population's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding healthy nutrition. Currently, the field stage covers more than 13,000 households, ensuring representativeness. The research program includes five main areas. First, knowledge and practical skills in nutrition are gathered. Second, the height, weight, and body mass index of participants are measured, which helps assess their physical condition. The third area focuses on biochemical analysis of blood, determining blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as the balance of trace elements. The fourth and fifth areas study the clinical health status, as well as personal and family medical history and social-cultural conditions. This comprehensive approach allows for not only identifying the problem but also deeply analyzing its roots. The collected data will help identify dietary habits, the level of awareness of healthy eating rules among the population, and the distribution of issues related to overweight and hunger among social groups. As a result, a number of strategic initiatives will be developed based on the collected data. These include creating national programs aimed at preventing non-communicable diseases and launching large-scale information campaigns. Additionally, the research results will serve as a basis for improving legislation regulating the quality and labeling of food products. Such evidence-based approaches have been accepted as effective practices in global health policy, enabling rapid responses to existing problems and achieving long-term positive changes. Bread is considered sacred in traditional Uzbek culture. It is never placed on the ground or faced down, and old bread is not thrown away but given to animals. This cultural value may influence food habits and should be taken into account in regional information campaigns

Recently, on August 3, a serious incident occurred at the "Boulevard" residential complex in Tashkent. This was reported by Upl.uz. This incident attracted the attention of the public through a video on social media. According to initial information, the child found themselves in a dangerous situation due to insufficient supervision by adults. This situation serves as a reminder for all parents about the necessity of constantly monitoring their children. Even brief moments of inattention can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, parents and adults must always remain vigilant and pay special attention to creating a safe environment for children, especially in places that are particularly dangerous, such as near balconies, windows, and staircases. The safety of children must always come first.

A serious incident occurred in the city of Menzelinsk, Russia. This was reported by Upl.uz. As a result, a 13-year-old teenager died. His 11-year-old sister is suspected as a participant in the crime. She inflicted several stab wounds on the boy with sharp knives. Additionally, their 68-year-old grandmother was also injured. This family had moved from the Republic of Uzbekistan to Russia. The incident took place on the night of August 2. The parents were not at home as they were working the night shift. According to preliminary information, one of the reasons for the conflict was a mobile phone. The brother warned his sister for watching a scary movie at night and took away her phone. According to the investigation, while waiting for everyone to fall asleep, the girl inflicted several stab wounds on her brother. The boy died on the spot from his injuries. The grandmother was injured when she rushed to the commotion and was hospitalized. The 19-year-old older sister contacted emergency services, and it is said that she may have also been attacked. According to the Tatarstan Interior Ministry, the girl explained her actions by being in a semi-conscious state. She is currently in a special medical facility undergoing psychiatric evaluation. The family, which moved to Menzelinsk a year ago, is not considered socially problematic. The head of the family recently obtained Russian citizenship, while his wife has a work patent. The children were in the process of obtaining Russian citizenship. The investigation is under the supervision of Irina Volynets, the children's rights representative in Tatarstan. She announced that the investigation has begun and appropriate measures will be taken based on the results. Alexander Bastrykin, the head of the Russian Investigative Committee, demanded a detailed report on the criminal case. This crime is being investigated under the articles of intentional murder of a child and intentional assault on two or more persons. The body of the deceased boy is planned to be sent to Uzbekistan for burial.

Significant personnel changes have occurred in Samarkand region. This was reported by Upl.uz. During the extraordinary sessions of the Council of People's Deputies, three district leaders were renewed. Shunkor Khudoyberdiyev was appointed as the governor of Payariq district. He previously served as the deputy governor for rural and water management issues. Shunkor Khudoyberdiyev replaced Isroil Jabbarov, who was transferred to another position. Behzod Rahmatullaev was appointed as the new governor of Tayloq district. He had led the organizational and personnel group in the administration. His predecessor, Bahodir Bobonazarov, was released from his position at his own request. Dilmuqod Sayidqulov was appointed as the governor of Urgut district. He previously served as the deputy prosecutor of the region. The former governor, Botir Jabbarov, moved to another job. The new governors are expected to accelerate social and economic development in the districts, enhance management efficiency, and assist in addressing the pressing issues of the population. These changes are considered to be of great importance for stability and development in the region.

Today, on August 5, at 18:44, an earthquake was observed in some regions of Uzbekistan. This was reported by Upl.uz. According to the information from the Republican Seismological Monitoring Center under the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the earthquake's epicenter is located in the Kyrgyzstan region. The epicenter is around the city of Jalalabad, with a magnitude of 5.2 and a depth of 15 kilometers. At the epicenter, the shaking intensity reached 6 points. The intensity of the earthquake in Uzbekistan was as follows: 4 points in Andijan region, 68 kilometers from the epicenter; 3 points in Namangan region, 96 kilometers away; 3 points in Fergana region, 131 kilometers away; and 2 points in Tashkent city, 292 kilometers away. The epicenter is located 292 kilometers northeast of Tashkent city. This information has been provided as a warning for the population and relevant organizations. Necessary measures are being taken, and continuous monitoring is ongoing for the safety of the population.

In recent days, Uzbek Instagram users have been facing an unexpected problem. This was reported by Upl.uz. Popular songs by foreign and local artists are not appearing on their accounts. Instead of well-known hits as before, there is now a limited library featuring only music from lesser-known artists. The reasons for this malfunction are currently unknown. No comments or official statements have been provided by Meta or responsible organizations regarding this issue. Users are expecting prompt measures to resolve the problem. The restriction of musical content on Instagram is causing inconvenience for many users, and they are seeking information on this matter. So far, there is no clear information on how the situation will develop.

The government has approved the procedure for providing material assistance for kindergarten services to single working parents. This was reported by Upl.uz. This measure aims to strengthen social protection in society and create favorable conditions for families in difficult life situations. According to the announced decision, starting from September 1, 2025, single mothers or fathers who are officially employed and included in the list of low-income families will have the right to receive subsidies. This initiative is part of the strategy to reform the social assistance system, and such payments were initiated from the funds of the state social protection fund starting March 1, 2025. The amount of financial assistance can be up to one and a half times the basic calculation value, which currently amounts to 618,000 soums. Assistance will be provided for each child until they reach the age of three. If twins are born, a separate payment will be made for each child. The funds are intended to cover the costs of sending the child to a kindergarten, regardless of the ownership form of the institution. The process of receiving assistance is maximally digitized, aimed at creating convenience for citizens and reducing bureaucratic barriers. Applications can be submitted through several methods: via the single interactive portal of state services, through the "Unified National System of Social Protection" information system, or directly at "Human" social service centers or state service centers. To submit an application, passport details, the child's birth certificate, and bank account information must be provided. A special list will be formed, which will allow for the automation of subsidy payments. Funds will be transferred to "social cards" or, if they are not available, to cards opened at the People's Bank. Opening cards and providing services will be free of charge. Payments will be made by the 10th of the month following the reporting month. This news is an important step towards further developing the targeted social assistance system. Earlier, the "Unified National System of Social Protection" was introduced, aimed at centralizing and improving all social services and pensions. The "social cards" system was implemented as a pilot project in Tashkent and Tashkent region in 2024 and will be in effect throughout the republic starting July 1, 2025

A draft law aimed at fundamentally improving the urban renewal processes in Uzbekistan was adopted in the first reading. This was reported by Upl.uz. This document introduces strict rules to protect the rights of property owners, establishes compensation mechanisms, and imposes liability on individuals who violate project deadlines. This is a response to numerous complaints from citizens in previous years. According to Deputy Minister of Justice Mahmud Istamov, who spoke in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, the absence of a special legal document in the field of renewal has led to systematic violations of property owners' rights. Problems that arose during the implementation of previous projects led to numerous protests and appeals to government agencies. Istamov stated that these situations have caused the opening of hundreds of criminal cases, as the rights of property owners have been violated by investors. The new law aims to create transparent and fair relations between property owners, investors, and the state. According to the Ministry of Justice, the housing stock in Uzbekistan includes nearly 42,000 multi-apartment buildings. Of these, approximately 17,000 are low-rise houses built several decades ago, consisting of two to three floors. According to official data, 343 buildings have reached the end of their normative service life and are in a hazardous condition, posing a threat to the population. Many local residents continue to live in dilapidated houses that do not meet safety and comfort standards. Engineering networks—electricity, water, and gas supply systems—are severely outdated. In some buildings, there is no centralized sewage system, and toilets are located on the street, as explained in detail by the deputy minister. The renewal program creates great opportunities to increase construction density in cities. Instead of 17,000 low-rise houses, nearly 13,500 modern 7-9 story multi-apartment buildings can be constructed. This will allow for an increase in living space and a threefold increase in the population. At the same time, such an approach ensures the efficient use of existing infrastructure and energy resources. Moreover, interest from the private sector in the construction of modern residential and commercial facilities is growing. However, it was emphasized that renewal projects should cover not only central areas but also remote regions. The draft law on "Urban Renewal" has undergone extensive public discussion. More than 3,000 people participated in it, providing 154 proposals. It was identified that there are two main concerns among citizens: guaranteed protection of property rights and fair compensation, as well as the risk of compulsory demolition without the consent of property owners. The new law will introduce strict restrictions to prevent such situations. Renewal will only be carried out in areas designated by the general plans of cities and where hazardous buildings are located. The project can be initiated by local authorities, the population, or investors. For a project to be launched by investors or the population, at least 80 percent of property owners must provide notarized consent in advance. If one out of four owners does not support the project, it will not be considered. Once the project is approved, the form of compensation will be negotiated individually with each property owner. Before starting construction work, a tripartite agreement will be signed between the local authority, the investor, and the property owner. As the deputy minister emphasized, construction or demolition work will not be carried out until all property owners give 100 percent consent. Large-scale renewal projects can also bring ecological problems to cities. The demolition of several dozen old low-rise houses means the loss of a natural environment that has developed over decades.

According to the press service of the Department under the Prosecutor General's Office, a person suspected of involvement in the illegal drug trade has been arrested. This was reported by Upl.uz. A special operation was conducted in collaboration with the staff of the Tashkent region administration and representatives of the National Security Service. During the operation, a man attempting to sell 1455 various drugs produced abroad without the necessary documents to two citizens was apprehended. He intended to receive 133 million soums for these drugs. All identified drugs were confiscated as evidence. A criminal case has been initiated in accordance with the article of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan regarding "the production, purchase, storage, transportation, or sale of drugs that raise doubts about their quality or are counterfeit, the realization of drugs outside pharmacies, and the violation of the procedure for selling drugs containing potent substances by prescription." This case is considered an important part of the ongoing fight against the illegal drug trade. Investigative actions are continuing by the relevant authorities.

In July 2025, a total of 279 cases of illegal use of gas and electricity were recorded in Uzbekistan. This was reported by Upl.uz. The total damage caused by these violations amounted to 96 billion 85 million soums. According to the press service of "Uzenergoinspektsiya," 12.6 million cubic meters of gas were illegally stolen over the course of a month, which is equivalent to 41.1 billion soums. Additionally, it was found that 27.1 million kilowatt-hours of electricity were stolen, with a value of 54.9 billion soums. Administrative proceedings were initiated in relation to these cases. Legal measures were taken against all violators, and the case documents were submitted to law enforcement agencies for further investigation. Illegal connections cause serious harm to the country's economy and negatively affect the stability of the energy system. Illegal connections to networks lead to excessive loads, accidents, and a decline in the quality of service. For this reason, "Uzenergoinspektsiya" is strengthening control and regularly conducting raids. The ministry asks citizens to report any suspicious cases of illegal use of energy resources so that this issue can be addressed together.