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A group of 150 lawyers has filed a criminal complaint against Istanbul Governor Davut Gul, arguing that the governorate’s recently announced restrictions on feeding stray dogs violate both national legislation and Türkiye’s international commitments.
The circular, published on Nov. 24, called on public institutions to prevent “uncontrolled feeding” near schools, hospitals, airports, places of worship, parks, gardens, playgrounds and roadside areas. Lawyers said the instruction has been framed as a ban despite lacking any legal authority.
In their petition submitted to the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the lawyers stated that the governorate cited a July 2, 2025, decision by the Provincial Animal Protection Committee as the basis for the circular.
However, they stressed that the referenced decision contains no feeding ban, only a call for precautionary measures against uncontrolled feeding practices.
The petition alleges that the governorate presented the ruling “as if it contained a prohibition,” misleading public institutions and the wider public while engaging in what the lawyers described as an abuse of authority.
Highlighting Article 5199 of the Animal Protection Law, the lawyers noted that the legislation does not grant a governorate the power to impose a feeding ban on stray animals. They added that the state is legally responsible for the care and nourishment of animals under its protection.
The complaint argues that the circular violates both domestic laws and international conventions to which Türkiye is a party.
The petition further claims that the governorate’s announcement constitutes “public incitement to disobey the law” under Article 217 of the Turkish Penal Code (TCK), as leaving animals without food is an act punishable under Article 28/A of Law 5199.
Lawyers said the circular has made animal-rights defenders a target, pointing to recent attacks as evidence of rising hostility.
According to the petition, the statement has “fueled violence within society and endangered the safety of animal advocates,” thereby undermining public order.
The criminal complaint concludes that available evidence demonstrates the unlawfulness of the governorate’s action.
Lawyers requested the preparation of an indictment against Gul under the relevant articles. The governorate’s circular and the minutes of the Provincial Animal Protection Committee were submitted as supporting documents.
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