Prominent Veteran Haci Valiyev Alleges Torture and Government Neglect from Baku Detention

Baku, Azerbaijan – Haci Valiyev, chairman of the "Ganc Qazilar" (Young Veterans) Public Union, whose pre-trial detention was extended by an additional 20 days on 18 August, has spoken out from Baku Investigation Isolator. In an interview with journalist Ulviyya Ali, who is also detained as part of the "Meydan TV case," Valiyev discussed the reasons for his arrest, the alleged torture he endured, and the cessation of his organisation's activities. Both "Abzas Media" and "Meydan TV" have published excerpts from this interview.

Arrest and Allegations of Abuse

Valiyev stated that his arrest was a direct consequence of his public criticism of the government's "stepmotherly attitude" towards veterans and the disabled (qazilar) on social media and in the media. He claims he was detained on "fabricated charges".

Valiyev described his arrest on 31 March, stating that police officers from the Baku City Main Police Department (BSBPI) "kidnapped" him as he left his home to buy medicine.

He was subsequently charged under Articles 221.3 and 186.1 of the Criminal Code, which he dismisses as "fake accusations". Sources also note he was arrested on 31 March by police in connection with a criminal case under Article 221 (hooliganism), though the specific motive was not disclosed. Valiyev denies the charges against him.

During his detention, Valiyev declared a hunger strike in protest.

He alleges that on 26 June, Armed Forces Day, he was placed in "kars" (a punishment cell), where a junior warrant officer named Tural subjected him to violence for four days. He claims to have suffered "moral torment and torture" every day he was there, resulting in a head injury and swelling that persists.

Deteriorating Health and Lack of Medical Care

Valiyev, a second-group disabled veteran, has pre-existing severe injuries from the war, including the loss of one eye and only 3% vision in the other. He reported that his chronic gastrointestinal illness, diagnosed in 2018, and his eye condition were regularly monitored and treated before his arrest. However, since his detention, he has received no medical examinations or treatment, and his condition has worsened, with increased pain in his eyes and gastrointestinal tract.

Government's Stance on Veterans and Criticisms

Valiyev served on the front line ten years ago. He expressed disappointment, stating that after the war, "we thought there would be reforms, but the exact opposite happened". He argues that veterans and the disabled have not received the care they deserve, and that the government "has no value" for them.

He criticises the government for jailing anyone who speaks out, regardless of whether they are a martyr's family member, a veteran, or an ordinary citizen.

Valiyev highlighted that over 20,000 combatants were wounded in the 44-day war, but only 3,000 have been granted disability status.

He claims that the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population (AASMN) has stated it will not grant disability status to any more individuals.

Furthermore, he points out that there are currently 187,000 veterans who receive a pension of only 80 manat.

Valiyev firmly states that "the architects of victory are the martyrs, the disabled, the veterans and the people, but the government does not recognise their rights".

Dissolution of "Ganc Qazilar" Public Union

Valiyev founded the "Ganc Qazilar" Public Union in 2021. Following his arrest, another person took over his duties, but the organisation's members later decided to dissolve the union without informing him. Valiyev believes this decision was made under pressure from the State Security Service (DTX) and the Baku City Main Police Department (BSBPI). He expressed disappointment that members are now avoiding his calls and concealing what happened, calling it "cowardice".

He clarified that the "Ganc Qazilar" Public Union is not a political organisation. Its stated mission is to support veterans and the disabled in their post-war adaptation to society, ensure proper medical examinations and treatment for the wounded, improve their financial and social conditions, and protect their rights and interests.

The "Meydan TV Case" and Political Prisoners

The interview took place with independent journalist Ulviyya Ali (Quliyeva), who was arrested on 6 May this year as part of the "Meydan TV case". She faces charges under Article 206.3.2 of the Criminal Code (smuggling committed by a group of persons in prior collusion). Ali denies the charges, stating she was arrested for her journalistic activities.

Local human rights defenders report that there are currently around 400 political prisoners in the country. However, government representatives reject these claims, stating that those arrested are held accountable for specific actions.