In Surkhandarya region, criminal proceedings have been initiated against the individuals who married a 15-year-old girl to a 28-year-old man, in accordance with the procedure established by law. According to the Children’s Ombudsman, this case constitutes a serious violation of the rights of the child, and those responsible may face administrative and criminal liability.
It was established that on July 8, 2025, in the Denov district, a woman M.R., born in 1958, organized a wedding ceremony for her underage granddaughter A.R., born in 2009, with a resident of the same district, M.R., born in 1997. Since A.R. is underage, the official marriage was not registered according to legal procedure. Nevertheless, a citizen I.M., born in 1950, conducted a sharia marriage ceremony for material gain.
On September 22, a criminal case was initiated: I.M. is charged under Article 125-1 of the Criminal Code (violation of marriage age legislation or the procedure for its registration), while M.R. is charged under Article 128 of the Criminal Code (sexual intercourse with a person under sixteen years old). Preliminary investigation is currently being conducted by the investigative department of the Denov District Internal Affairs.
The Children’s Ombudsman categorically condemns all cases of early marriage and reminds that they constitute violations of the rights of minors. According to Article 15 of the Family Code, the legal marriage age for men and women is 18. Marriages involving persons under this age are considered invalid. Parents or intermediaries who allow such cases may face heavy fines, and in case of recurrence or serious consequences, criminal liability.
This case is widely discussed on social media and draws public attention to the protection of children’s rights and ensuring social justice in society.
Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
