Prison conditions under review: New facility construction in progress

On May 14, reports surfaced on social media alleging that the Central Detention Facility in Tashkent Region, commonly known as "Toshturma," was housing more inmates than its capacity and that many were forced to sleep on the floor. In response, the Ombudsman of the Oliy Majlis issued a statement addressing the situation.

Officials clarified that the issue had previously been investigated, with findings submitted to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and other relevant agencies. The public had also been informed about the results.

On May 15, Ombudsman representatives visited the facility to inspect ongoing construction work and monitor living conditions.

Authorities confirmed that a six-story building is being constructed to increase capacity, with the final sixth floor currently under development.

"The completion of this construction will improve living conditions for inmates and ensure compliance with space regulations," the statement read.

During the monitoring visit, officials conducted interviews with prisoners to assess their living conditions, food quality, medical care, and hygiene standards. They also met with lawyers visiting detainees.

Recommendations were made to accelerate construction and implement solutions to existing issues.

Previously, reports had claimed that inmates at "Toshturma" were only receiving water for 4–6 hours per day. However, the Ombudsman refuted these claims, stating that such conditions had not been observed.