Andijan officials criticized for labeling schoolchildren as "red category"

The meeting, held on November 28, was part of an initiative involving schools located within the third sector of the Khodjaobod district. According to a report from the district administration’s press service, the meeting aimed to discuss the students' future plans and interests. It was attended by Jaloliddinov, the district’s Public Reception Office head D. Komiljonov, and several other officials.

Images accompanying the report showed the participating students, including nine hijab-wearing girls and several boys, with their faces clearly visible. The meeting was described as a platform to provide advice and guidance to these students. However, the report failed to clarify the criteria used to classify these children as belonging to the "red category."

The labeling of minors in this manner has sparked criticism. According to law, specifically Articles 4 and 10 of the Law on Guarantees of the Rights of the Child, children are protected from discrimination and any actions that infringe on their dignity and self-esteem. The law also mandates state protection against any treatment that undermines the inherent value of a child.

By referring to these children as part of a "red category," the district administration’s statement appears to have ascribed a negative connotation to them, further compounded by the publication of images without safeguarding their identities.

The lack of transparency about the reasons behind this categorization and the subsequent handling of the situation has raised questions about the violation of child protection laws. Civil rights advocates have called for clearer guidelines and accountability in addressing issues involving minors, emphasizing the need to protect their dignity and rights.