Turkish veterans sustain sit‑in at Ankara’s Güvenpark demanding equal rights

Veterans, families of fallen soldiers and former conscripts have occupied Ankara’s Güvenpark for several days, staging a sit‑in to press for equal pay, benefits and adequate medical support. Among the demonstrators is Bayram Diker, a 48‑year‑old veteran who lost both eyes in a clash with the PKK; he says his prosthetic lenses cost 135,000 lira and cannot be replaced due to the single‑salary allowance. Protesters call for the state to honor their service with proper salaries, allowances for prostheses and equal treatment regardless of rank.

The protest has attracted political attention. İYİ Party leader Müsavat Dervişoğlu visited the camp, affirming that “gazi and şehit status are inseparable” and pledging continued support until the government addresses the veterans’ demands. He urged authorities to fulfill their responsibilities and highlighted the symbolic importance of the sit‑in for broader public awareness.