Artsakh’s State Minister Nzhdeh Iskandaryan has been summoned to the Investigative Committee, according to the Council for the Protection of the Rights of Artsakh Residents.
“The aim is to reopen a previously closed criminal case. We believe this action clearly reflects personal and political persecution, directly linked to the state minister’s active role in the July 12 rally. Mr. Iskandaryan was one of the few officials who not only attended but consistently supported the events before and after the rally through active public engagement,” the Council said in its statement.
They added that Iskandaryan’s summons carries a political message and represents a blow not only to a single official but also to the integrity of Artsakh’s institutions and the credibility of the Council for the Protection of Artsakh Residents’ Rights.
The July 12 rally in Yerevan, organized by Artsakh Armenians, focused on addressing social issues. After the gathering, police blocked organizers’ attempts to march, warning that force might be used. In response, demonstrators began a sit-in at Freedom Square.
On July 14, Council representative Apres Margaryan announced a temporary suspension of street actions due to limited public response. He said further steps would be discussed and announced later. On July 16, it was revealed that the Prosecutor’s Office had requested to annul ownership rights to the building housing Artsakh’s permanent representation.
