Teachers Disciplined for Hugging Each Other

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An investigation was launched against two high school teachers in the eastern Van province for hugging each other in the school during a birthday celebration.

Both teachers were disciplined as the male teacher was placed in another district and the woman received a salary cut.

An investigation for "immodest behavior" was launched against the teachers after complaints by their colleagues, the Mezopotamya Agency reported. Conducting the investigation, the Provincial Directorate of National Education also filed a criminal complaint against them. Çatak Chief Public Prosecutor's Office launched an investigation for "immodest behavior" but discontinued it for "lack of evidence."

Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) Van MP Murat Sarısaç brought the incident to the parliament, submitting a parliamentary question to Minister of National Education Ziya Selçuk.

He asked what is the legal basis for launching an investigation against two teacher for hugging each other and why the teachers were disciplined despite the prosecutor's verdict.

The Governor's Office said that there is footage showing "objectionable" behavior of the teachers and the incident was not happened during a birthday celebration.

"The information obtained during the examination and investigation, images and statements of witnesses revealed that the acts constituting a crime were carried out within the school," it said. (RT/VK)