Blogger who insulted journalist Anora Sodikova ordered to pay moral damages

The Tashkent City Court of Appeal for Civil Affairs has overturned the earlier verdict in the case of journalist Anora Sodikova’s lawsuit. This was reported by Abdurakhmon Tashanov, head of the Ezgulik human rights society.

According to the updated ruling, blogger Mirsaid Khaydarov, known by the nickname Mufasa, has been ordered to pay 25 million soums in moral damages to Sodikova.

“Blogger Mufasa will pay 25 million soums in moral damages and 5 million soums in other damages due to his use of the word "jurnaja*ap" in his posts, which were directed at Anora Sodikova. He will also issue a public apology to her and delete the offensive posts,” the statement said.

Previously, journalist Anora Sodikova filed a lawsuit against blogger Mirsaid Khaydarov in the Shaykhantohur Interdistrict Court for Civil Affairs. On May 28, the court had rejected her claim under Article 100 of the Civil Code (protection of honor, dignity, and professional reputation) and had ordered her to pay a state duty of 750,000 soums.