Surabaldiyeva asked the question: "How can we entrust the cabinet of ministers with setting the amounts of fees when cases of suicide continue to be recorded in the army, and the facts are investigated carelessly? What moral right does the government have to raise fees?" She expressed doubt about the cabinet of ministers' right to make such decisions and emphasized that this could cause discontent among citizens.
A representative of the Ministry of Defense stated that by law, all men over 18 are required to serve in the military; however, conscripts are not obligated to pay for alternative service. This right is granted to certain categories of citizens, including those with minor health issues.
He also added that the current fees do not cover the costs of maintaining one serviceman, including logistics, uniforms, food, and instructor salaries, which is why an increase in fees is proposed.
In response, the deputy inquired why, in that case, fines are being increased.
"Young people are leaving for abroad or to other regions," the representative of the Ministry of Defense replied."If there were no hazing and cases of suicide, no one would run away. There is fear of service. I believe that everyone should serve, but we cannot allow the sale of certificates to those who want to avoid conscription for alternative service. Discipline must be maintained. However, the timing for discussing this bill is unfortunate. A single mother will worry about how much money she needs to raise, and at the last moment, the government may increase the fees. Setting prices should be the prerogative of the parliament, which represents the interests of the people," Surabaldiyeva emphasized and asked about salary increases in the Ministry of Defense over the past five years.
According to the official, salaries have been increased by 100%. The amount of the salary depends on the length of service and rank: a lieutenant receives 60,000 soms, while a colonel earns up to 100,000 soms.
As a result of the voting, committee members approved the concept of the bill by a majority vote; however, Surabaldiyeva expressed her disagreement.
