DUSHANBE, July 21 2011, Asia-Plus -- Members of the upper house (Majlisi Milli) of parliament have unanimously seconded the law requiring amendments to the country’s penal code.

The next session of the Majlisi Milli, presided over by its head, Mahmadsaid Ubaidulloyev was held on July 21.

Presenting the law, the Majlisi Milli member Nouriddin Saidov noted that one of amendments made to Tajikistan’s penal code criminalizes the opening of illegal religious schools.

According to Minister of Interiors Abdurahim Qahhorov, the amendment makes the opening of illegal religious schools punishable by between five and 12 years in jail.

Previously, running such illegal schools incurred only an administrative punishment or a fine.

“Another amendment to the penal code stipulates that organizers and active participants of illegal demonstrations may be punished by between two to five years in prison, “ Qahhorov said.

Members of the Majlisi Mill also unanimously seconded the amendment to the country’s criminal procedure code stipulating that publications in media outlets now can become reason for instituting criminal proceedings.  “Of course if they contain solid evidences of violation of the country’s legislation by legal or physical entities,” MP Saidov noted.