Since the removal of the elected mayor of Batman (Êlih) Gülistan Sönük (DEM Party) last November, reports of intimidation, work pressure, and targeted harassment against employees – especially women – have been increasing, according to union sources.

It has been revealed that sociologist Rojin Akat, a social worker in the Office for Women's and Family Affairs, suffered a nervous breakdown during work around two weeks ago. According to colleagues, an ambulance had to be called. That same day, Akat filed a criminal complaint with the police for "abuse of office" against her supervisor, Esen Tunç.

In her written complaint, Akat described in detail the conditions in the office. Despite her qualifications, she was forced to perform tea services, was required to perform private tasks for her superiors, and was pressured to spy on colleagues. When she refused, she was verbally abused and subjected to massive psychological pressure.

The Genel-Iş union confirmed that such incidents are not isolated. "Since the appointment of the trustee, we have observed authoritarian, arbitrary, and often unlawful practices in almost all departments of the city administration," said Narin Erol, co-chair of the Genel-Iş local branch in Batman. Employees are threatened with transfer, dismissal, or harassment as soon as they express criticism or refuse to follow private instructions.

According to Erol, the area of ​​women's policy is particularly affected. "There are numerous reports of humiliation, intimidation, the prohibition of visits to the workplace, and the threat or initiation of disciplinary proceedings against undesirable employees," she said.

Another problem is the inadequate basic services in some municipal facilities: "In areas such as the public parks department or the municipal bakery, there is a lack of sanitary facilities or drinking water. Employees have to rely on local residents – and are subjected to disciplinary action for this," Erol continued.

Systematic crackdown on politically undesirable or marginalized employees

The union sees these developments as a systematic crackdown on politically undesirable or marginalized employees. "Women and people who do not conform to the political line of compulsory administration in particular are being deliberately excluded and put under pressure," Erol explained.

Employees are regularly asked to resign, and resistance is met with reprisals. "We will exhaust all legal avenues and continue to publicize the conditions in Batman," the union representative said.