Even if the residents of Kiran do not have property rights, the state is obliged to bear the consequences: Ombudsman

During a session of the National Assembly, while discussing the annual report of the Ombudsman, MP Taguhi Tovmasyan asked Ombudsman Anahit Manasyan about the violations of property rights of people in Kiran, mentioning that there had been violence since the morning. She inquired about what measures had been taken to protect the rights of these individuals.

In response, the deputy speaker of the National Assembly, Ruben Rubinyan, noted that Tovmasyan's information was false and that no violence was being perpetrated in Kiran. He remarked that there had been no delineation process regarding the fate of the houses in Kiran, and therefore nothing conclusive could be established.

Anahit Manasyan also highlighted that she was not only speaking as the Ombudsman but as a citizen, emphasizing that every person present understands the emotional and socio-psychological situation that the mentioned individuals are experiencing. “I specifically noted that it is necessary to be as stable and tolerant as possible in relations with these individuals, even in situations where the state may legally limit any right; however, it is unacceptable to disregard these circumstances. We continually take certain steps regarding this issue, visiting the relevant areas and speaking with people to understand the challenges they face, especially related to violence and overall mistreatment. At this stage, we have requested clarifications from the competent authorities, and we have received some informal explanations, but we are waiting for official clarifications regarding the issues so that we can make necessary summaries,” she stated.

Regarding issues related to property rights, the Ombudsman indicated that she personally traveled to the Tavush region. “I want to emphasize that even if individuals do not have ownership certificates, if they have exercised control over any real estate for many years, the state has obligations in this case. The state is obliged to bear all the consequences related to this, including through compensation or other forms,” she concluded.