Allegations of a 'Sword Crossing' survey for military students: Concerns of profiling!

The Training and Doctrine Command (EDOK) of the Land Forces Command has conducted a survey targeting military students. It was learned that military students training at class schools affiliated with the EDOK Command were reached via text message on their mobile phones and summoned to classrooms, where they were distributed a two-question survey.

According to a report by Halk TV, the first question in the survey was regarding the sword-crossing ritual performed after the August 30 graduation ceremony.

Students were asked, "Did you participate in the sword-crossing ritual?" The second question included the phrase, "If you participated in the sword-crossing ritual, who was with you?"

These questions caused concern among military students and raised questions about the purpose of the survey. In particular, although it was stated that participation in the survey was mandatory but answering was not, it was noted that students were required to write their names, surnames, and service numbers.

CONDUCTED WITH VERBAL INSTRUCTIONS WITHOUT A WRITTEN ORDER

When military students questioned the justification for the survey and whether there was a written order, they were told that no such document existed but that it was carried out under verbal orders. Students were informed that the survey was mandatory in terms of participation, but that they were under no obligation to answer the questions. Despite this, the request for identification information raised allegations of profiling among the students.

CONCERNS OVER PROFILING: "THIS PROCEDURE IS ILLEGAL"

Military sources state that the procedure is not a standard one. Some individuals close to the matter suggested that this could be an attempt at profiling and that it constitutes an illegal practice.

Sources stated, "Such practices have caused controversy in the past as well. Here, the collection of personal information and the questioning of participation in a specific ceremony is clearly an attempt at profiling. Whether this constitutes a crime should be evaluated, and it should be examined whether legal action will be taken against the EDOK Commander."

The posing of questions regarding participation in the sword-crossing ceremony has led to interpretations that the current investigation could be expanded. While the repercussions of the dismissal decision given to 5 lieutenants continue, claims are being voiced that this survey could create pressure on other military students and that similar dismissals could occur in the future.