Bishop Mkrtich under house arrest cannot participate in liturgies; separate petition to be filed

A few days ago, the court has replaced the detention of Mkrtich Proshyan, Primate of the Aragatsotn Diocese, with house arrest as a preventive measure. The court also outlined the restrictions applied to the clergyman.

Speaking to Aysor.am, his lawyer Roman Aharonyan said the ruling does not address whether the bishop may participate in liturgies.

“This decision did not cover that issue. We will submit a separate motion on the matter,” he said, stressing that under the current restrictions the bishop’s right to freedom of religion is being infringed.

Aharonyan added that Bishop Mkrtich’s contacts with the clergy of the Aragatsotn Diocese are also restricted. “He may meet only with close relatives,” the lawyer noted.

The next court hearing is scheduled for February 20.

Meanwhile, Mikayel Ajapahyan, who is also under house arrest, is likewise unable to participate in liturgies. His lawyer Marine Farmanyan told Aysor.am that they are pursuing the issue.

“We raised this matter during the court hearing. The court postponed consideration of the motion, citing the need to examine both domestic and international judicial practice. I hope we will receive a decision at the next hearing,” Farmanyan said.