Rada backs bill in principle on changes to rules for entering data into the ERDR

The Verkhovna Rada supported in principle a bill that changes the procedure for entering information into the Unified Register of Pre-trial Investigations (ERDR). Parliamentarians also shortened the deadlines for preparing this document for second reading.

Risk of blocking investigations

The organisation "MEZHA" states that the proposed changes could complicate the start of investigations, particularly in the sphere of economic and corruption offences. The head of the parliamentary committee on law enforcement activities, which is the author of the initiative, is Serhiy Ionushas.

The document provides for amendments to Article 214 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine. The key innovation is the introduction of the "sufficient data" criterion as a condition for entering information into the ERDR.

"MEZHA" is convinced that such a provision creates a risk of granting investigators broad powers to assess whether there are sufficient grounds to begin an investigation. This could lead to proceedings being blocked even before the first investigative actions are carried out.

Return to Soviet standards

Critics drew attention to the arguments used during the discussion in the relevant committee. According to the organisation, MP Neklyudov, justifying the changes to Article 214 of the CPC, referred to the provisions of the 1960 Criminal Procedure Code.

"MEZHA" views this as a return to the approaches of the Soviet criminal procedure system. During that period, it was mandatory to establish the sufficiency of data on a possible crime before starting an investigation.

Criticism of voting speed

The organisation also criticised the high pace of the bill's passage through parliament. According to their information, the law enforcement committee recommended adopting the document on the eve of the vote. The very next day, deputies supported it in principle and set shortened deadlines for preparation for second reading.

"MEZHA" calls on MPs not to vote for bill No. 15488-3 in second reading if it retains provisions that the organisation considers dangerous.