Erdoğan Slams Headscarf Incident in Northern Cyprus: "We’ll Deal With the Arrogant Ones"

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has reacted strongly to a recent headscarf controversy in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), condemning what he described as an attack on a female student over her hijab. He stated that he is closely following the situation and promised to take action against those responsible.

“I’ve heard about the arrogance shown toward a young woman wearing a headscarf in the TRNC,” Erdoğan said, as reported by Türkiye newspaper. “God willing, I’ll respond appropriately. We’re planning a visit to Northern Cyprus soon, and I’ll give the necessary instructions there.”

The president reminded the public that the right to wear the hijab in Turkey was won after many years of struggle, and emphasized that this same right must be protected in Northern Cyprus.

“The hijab is a matter of faith and a fundamental right,” he said, adding that Turkey would oppose any form of discrimination related to it.

Erdoğan urged educational institutions and TRNC authorities to respond promptly and take the necessary steps to address the issue. “Turkey will be watching the developments closely,” he added.

The controversy comes in the wake of new regulations approved by the TRNC Council of Ministers. The legislation, titled Regulations on Rules and Discipline for Secondary Schools and Educational Institutions, was published in the Official Gazette and includes guidelines on the wearing of headscarves by female students.

The policy was initially approved in mid-March but was later withdrawn for review after facing heavy criticism. It sparked significant public debate and drew strong reactions from teachers’ unions. In one incident, a student wearing a headscarf was reportedly denied entry to her classroom.

Mass protests followed in Nicosia, with around 40 organizations and an estimated 13,000 people taking to the streets. Demonstrations continued last week, as union members staged protests and lit bonfires outside the parliament building.