Human rights defender Siranush Sahakyan has stated that recent photographs of former Artsakh State Minister Ruben Vardanyan reveal visible injuries on his body, NEWS.am reports.
According to her, international standards dictate that if a person enters state custody in good health, the state bears full responsibility for any injuries sustained and must provide an explanation for their cause.
"In the case of individuals in closed institutions, the presumption of torture applies unless the state can unequivocally disprove allegations of mistreatment beyond reasonable doubt. Here, signs of violence are evident. Moreover, in legal proceedings, another safeguard exists—if an individual shows signs of apparent torture during a court appearance, the court is obligated to demand an investigation into the injuries from the relevant authorities, and under national law, an independent inquiry must be launched," she said.
Sahakyan added that a court session had already taken place, yet there was no indication that Azerbaijani law enforcement was investigating the causes of Vardanyan's injuries.
"This clearly suggests a practice of coercion, including forced confessions and statements obtained under pressure," she emphasized.
She also noted that human rights defenders are preparing a joint statement to submit to international organizations and are actively cooperating with foreign journalists.
"However, I believe these facts should be presented before international judicial and quasi-judicial bodies handling cases related to Armenian prisoners of war. The Republic of Armenia should also play a role in this process," Sahakyan added.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan has expressed support for Ruben Vardanyan, who remains unlawfully detained in Baku.
On his social media page, Mkhitaryan posted about the sham trial and torture Vardanyan is facing.
*Vardanyan has been on a hunger strike for a week. During the last court session, his health severely deteriorated, and photographs from the hearing showed visible injuries on his face. Despite this, the court forced him to attend the session.
His international lawyer recently provided details about his health, warning that his life is in serious danger.*
