ECtHR finds right violation in singer Atilla Taş's trial after coup attempt

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The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) has ruled that Turkey violated the right to liberty and security of Atilla Taş, a singer who was handed a prison sentence in relation to the coup attempt in July 2016.

The European Court ordered Turkey to pay 12.275 Euro to Taş for immaterial damages and 3,175 Euro for court costs.

"There are judges in Europe. I wish there were in our country as well," he said on Twitter after the decision.

Known for his critical comments about the government on social media, Taş also worked as a columnist for Meydan newspaper, which was linked to the coup plotters by authorities and eventually shut down after the coup attempt. 

Following the coup attempt, Taş stood trial in the case of "Fethullahist Terrorist Organization Media Organization" and was sentenced to 3 years, a month and 15 days in prison for "knowingly and willingly aiding a terrorist organization."

The 16th Chamber of the Court of Cassation overturned the decision and a retrial started at a local court.

As Taş was arrested again after serving 14 months in prison, the Constitutional Court ruled that his rights were violated. (HA/VK)