According to the newly approved amendments to the Code of Administrative Offences, which were approved at today’s third session of the Majlisi namoyandagon of the Majlisi Oli of Tajikistan of the fourth convocation, citizens of Tajikistan can be fined from 2000 to 4000 Somoni for violation of the rules of getting religious education abroad.

Additionally, Tajik religious organizations can be fined from 1.200 to 1.600 Somoni for having international relations with foreign religious organizations without notifying related national structures.

According to the amendments, any religious organization and person can be fined up to 2000 Somoni for religious propaganda in education institutions or houses of citizens of Tajikistan.

When presenting the listed above amendments first deputy chairman of the Tajik Government’s Committee for Religious Affairs Jumakhon Giyesov said the amendments meet the law “On freedom of conscience and religious associations” which was approved last year.

Representatives of the Islamic Renaissance party of Tajikistan, deputies Moukhiddin Kabiri and Sayeedumar Husaini tried to introduce a series of changes into the amendments.

IRPT leader questioned the phrase “fine for carrying out propaganda in education institutions.”

“It seems that any religious figure can be fined for taking part in any campaigns dedicated to promotion of common values such as respect.” Kabiri said. “It is also unclear what “international relations with foreign religious organizations without notifying competent authorities” means. Does it mean that I have to notify competent authorities when I’m going to send SMS or an e-mail?”

Another deputy of the Lower Chamber of Tajikistan’s Parliament and member of IRPT Sayeedumar Husaini offered to reduce the amount of fines.

The majority of deputies voted for the amendments ignoring suggestions offered by IRPT representatives.