"For the usual criticism in social networks, people are either prosecuted...”

In the past month, a growing number of complaints have emerged regarding an uptick in attacks on social activists, opposition figures, and administrative arrests in Azerbaijan. Concerns are mounting that human rights violations are on the rise, particularly in the wake of brief military operations in Karabakh, which occurred on September 19-20.

Allegations of increased rights abuses have centered around Baku, where several public and political activists have been arrested on charges of criminal and administrative offenses. Relatives and human rights defenders contend that these individuals are being persecuted due to their critical views and activities.

One troubling incident came to light on October 24 when a photograph of Mehman Habibov, a member of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan, showed visible signs of injuries. Habibov reported that on October 11, he was accosted by individuals in plainclothes who physically assaulted him. Habibov alleges that they threatened him, saying, "Do you want to come to power? We will not allow this. You will not see the authorities." Despite filing a complaint with the police, he claims that his case was not properly investigated, leading him to temporarily leave the country.

Elshad Hajiyev, the head of the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in an interview with Turan, countered these allegations, asserting that individuals are arrested based on various criminal and administrative acts, not their political views. He emphasized that claims of politically motivated arrests are fundamentally incorrect and are meant to manipulate public perception.

According to Hajiyev, individuals detained and subjected to preventive measures are assessed in accordance with the law, and their detention is unrelated to their political beliefs. He also highlighted that individuals have the right to address their concerns through the proper channels if they feel their rights have been violated.

Hajiyev specifically addressed the case of Mehman Habibov, stating that the incident did not involve police officers in civilian clothes. He indicated that the altercation stemmed from a personal dispute, where both parties were involved in a conflict situation. An investigation into the matter is ongoing.

Elman Nasirov, a member of the Milli Majlis Committee on Human Rights, in an interview with Turan, echoed the sentiment that individuals are not persecuted for their political views in Azerbaijan. He suggested that some opposition circles may harbor feelings of inferiority due to recent historic victories achieved by the Azerbaijani state, leading to unfounded claims of repression.

Nasirov argued that opposition figures have failed to provide objective assessments of these significant events and have neglected to acknowledge the role played by the Azerbaijani army in securing these victories. He emphasized that there is no persecution for political beliefs in Azerbaijan, and individuals who engage in criminal activities are held accountable under the law.

However, human rights activist Rufat Safarov, co-founder of the organization Defense Line, in a comment for Radio Azadlig, painted a different picture. He noted that the Azerbaijani authorities have intensified their monitoring of social networks in recent years, particularly following the military operations in Karabakh.

Safarov argued that despite military achievements and successes in foreign policy, the government continues to engage in a repressive policy, undermining trust between society and the authorities. He cited socio-economic problems and fundamental human rights violations as reasons for the persistent tension.

According to Safarov, individuals who voice critical opinions or engage in activism, particularly online, often face legal consequences, including criminal charges or administrative penalties. He also pointed out instances of torture within police stations, indicating that the policy of repression remains pervasive.

The human rights activist concluded that individuals who post critical comments, especially about high-ranking officials, are increasingly isolated, reflecting the ongoing challenges to free expression in Azerbaijan.