ISTANBUL – The Human Rights Association (İHD) Istanbul Branch has sent letters to all political parties with parliamentary groups, urging their support for the release of their imprisoned and seriously ill member, Hatice Onaran.

 

The İHD Istanbul Branch made a public statement in front of its office, joined by numerous human rights defenders. A banner reading “End judicial pressure on human rights defenders! Hatice Onaran is not alone” was displayed, and participants chanted “Free ill prisoners!”

 

'SHE WAS PUNISHED FOR HUMANITARIAN SOLIDARITY'

 

Speaking on behalf of the association, İHD Prison Commission member Meral Nergis Şahin explained that Hatice Onaran had been arrested for providing financial assistance to impoverished and ill prisoners through her own means as part of the association’s solidarity efforts.

 

She stated: “Despite complying with all legal procedures, this humanitarian act was treated as a crime. She was charged with ‘violating the Law on the Prevention of the Financing of Terrorism’ and sentenced to 4 years and 2 months in prison by the Istanbul 13th High Criminal Court. Since October 10, 2024, she has been held in Gebze Women’s Closed Prison.”

 

'SHE IS NOW A SERIOUSLY ILL PRISONER'

 

Meral Nergis Şahin emphasized that Onaran, who had long advocated for the rights and healthcare of ill prisoners, is now one herself. “She is 60 years old, with a 79 per cent disability report, and has undergone treatment for colon cancer. Her medical checkups and treatments were ongoing when she was imprisoned. Recent tests have shown alarming results related to cancer recurrence, and a PET scan has been scheduled. We are deeply concerned about her condition,” she added.  

 

Meral Nergis Şahin called for urgent action to prevent another death in prison: “Hatice Onaran, who was unjustly arrested, must be released immediately so that her examinations and treatment can take place in a proper medical environment.”

 

After the press statement, İHD members sent letters to parliamentary parties explaining Onaran’s health condition and demanding her immediate release.