Turkish Court Rules in Favor of Engineer Assaulted by Employer

The Supreme Court of Appeals (Yargıtay) has upheld a ruling in favor of a chemical engineer in Bursa, Turkey, who was allegedly assaulted by his employer to force the signing of documents. The engineer had resigned from a paint factory after eight years of service, citing unpaid wages and excessive working hours.

The engineer claimed that the company owner physically assaulted him to compel him to sign certain documents. He also alleged that the employer utilized three different companies registered under different names to evade legal responsibilities. The lawsuit sought compensation for severance pay, annual leave, overtime, and holiday wages.

The Labor Court initially ruled that the engineer had a justified reason to terminate his contract, noting that evidence proved unpaid labor claims and excessive working hours. The court also acknowledged that the employer had previously faced criminal proceedings regarding the assault. Following a rejected appeal by the regional court, the Yargıtay 9th Civil Chamber has now affirmed the decision.