The head of state, during a meeting devoted to the26th anniversary of the adoption of Uzbekistan’s Constitution, emphasized that in the past two years important measures have been taken to ensure the independence of the courts. This year alone, 1,881 criminal cases were closed due to insufficient evidences and 590 convicts were acquitted by the courts. 
 
“In addition, unreasonable articles in the process of investigations were removed from the accusations towards 5,462 persons and 2,449 were released from the courtroom. 
 
The practice of repeatedly hearing trials over the years has been eliminated completely. 
 
Totally new practice is being introduced on the base of principle of humanism. As a result, 993 civilians, such as 456 men and 113 women, were freed from punishments due to their genuine repentance and commitment not to be involved in crimes under guarantee of the “Youth Union”, local administration and Committee for Women. 
 
Also, 3,333 prisoners, specially 646 convicts who had been involved in the activities of banned organizations, have been pardoned and returned home. 
 
Today, on the occasion of a great holiday - the Constitution Day, I signed a special Decree. In compliance with it, 136 convicted people, who have sincerely repented of their deeds and have chosen the way of firm improvement, have been pardoned
 
More than 20,000 people, who have established alleged links to religious extremist groups, have been taken out of special accounts list,” the President said.