Illegal Religious School for Girls Uncovered in Margilan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Law enforcement authorities in Margilan, Ferghana Region, have uncovered an illegal religious school where classes were held for underage girls, the Ferghana Region Department of Internal Affairs said.

The violation was identified during preventive operations conducted jointly by officers of the internal affairs bodies and the State Security Service.

According to the investigation, a 34-year-old resident of Margilan organized unauthorized religious classes for 20 underage girls at her private home.

Law enforcement authorities said that 15 of the students lived in Margilan, while the other five came from Ferghana city and the Tashlak and Kushtepa districts of Ferghana Region.

A criminal case has been opened against the organizer under an article covering violations of the procedure for teaching religious doctrines.

The parents of the minors have also been held administratively liable under an article concerning the failure to fulfill parental responsibilities for the upbringing and education of children.

The investigation is ongoing.

The Ferghana Region Department of Internal Affairs reminded the public that religious education in Uzbekistan must be obtained only in accordance with procedures established by law and only at officially recognized educational institutions.