Statement on 'women's beach' from Silivri Mayor

Speaking at the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Council, Silivri Mayor Bora Balcıoğlu said, "The Republic of Turkey is a state of law. Private or legal entities, meaning everyone, can only act within the framework of the law. We cannot, and should not, act with a 'I did it, so it is done' mentality."

He stated that since he took office, documents reaching him from the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, CİMER, and various institutions regarding the women's beach in Selimpaşa indicated that coastlines are open for equal and free use by everyone, and that no obstacles such as structures, walls, fences, railings, wire mesh, or ditches can be created in these areas.

LEGAL STATUS OF THE BEACH

Mayor Balcıoğlu stated that the women's beach in Selimpaşa was entirely unregistered and illegal, saying, "The women's beach built in the area in Selimpaşa in question is entirely unregistered and illegal.

Neither my political team nor my administrative team has any issue with anyone's attire, thoughts, or value judgments; it is that clear. No one should have such issues either. This is a free country.

Nevertheless, we acted specifically within the laws and sought a way out, but we could not find one. For that reason, we reopened this area to public use," he said.

CALL TO PEOPLE'S ALLIANCE MEMBERS

Mayor Balcıoğlu stated that they made their assessment based on whether the practice was within the legal framework, saying, "Our assessment was made based on whether the practice was within the legal framework, and the necessary action was taken."

Addressing the People's Alliance council members, Bora Balcıoğlu said, "You have the majority in the Grand National Assembly of Turkey; you have the right to make laws.

Change the law, and I promise I will build not one, but two women's beaches. I explained this in the Silivri Municipal Council as well. It doesn't happen by just putting up four poles there; I will put up six poles, I will even close off the sea, it is that clear. Change the law for this issue; I only implemented the law," he said.

News Source: İHA