Commissioner for Human Rights in the Republic of Buryatia Yulia Zhambalova revealed numerous violations of the rights of citizens during her visit to the Zaigraevsky Branch of the Republican Mental Health Hospital.

During the meeting with patients Yulia Zhambolova received complaints about inhuman treatment by the staff. In particular, the patients donated significant amounts of money (from RUB 10 to 20 thousand) for the purchase of furniture, floor coating and other things for the needs of the institution. In addition, health workers disposed of patients' pensions at their discretion, without any legal grounds.

The regional Commissioner also found out that rights of the inmates to receive and send mails, as well as the disabled people’s rights to accessible environment were violated. Based on the results of the inspection, the Commissioner sent petitions to law enforcement and supervisory bodies of the republic.

As a result of another inspection, the prosecutor’s office of the Republic of Buryatia found out numerous violations of the federal legislation. In addition, the Office of Russian Federal Consumer Rights Protection and Human Health Control Service submitted a recommendation to the administration of the institution to eliminate conditions that could provoke spread of infectious diseases.

Today, the Investigative Department of the Investigative Committee of Russia in the Republic of Buryatia is conducting an audit of the mental health hospital on the basis of patients’ written complaints against assault.

Adapted from the Press Service of the Commissioner for Human Rights in the Republic of Buryatia