Health condition of imprisoned student on hunger strike in prison remains critical
The severe weight loss and isolation conditions experienced by university student Taceddin Erol Şahin, who continues his hunger strike at Marmara Prison, have been brought to the parliamentary agenda.
The hunger strike initiated in prison by Istanbul University student and detainee Taceddin Erol Şahin has reached its 169th day, while his health condition is rapidly deteriorating.
Imprisonment Process and the Start of the Hunger Strike
Istanbul University student Taceddin Erol Şahin was arrested on April 24 during operations prior to May Day on the grounds of his political activities and participation in a Berkin Elvan solidarity dinner.
Şahin, who was placed in solitary confinement at Marmara No. 6 Closed Prison for allegedly covering the in-cell camera, started an indefinite hunger strike on April 29, and his action entered its 169th day as of October 14.
Execution Conditions and Basic Demands
Şahin stated that he is being held under execution conditions applied to aggravated life-sentence prisoners in the prison and that a special treatment is applied to political prisoners.
His basic demands include opening the cell doors, opening the common living area for use, and being able to go out to the exercise yard like other inmates.
Confiscation of Belongings in the Cell
It was reported that mattresses and herbal teas in his cell were confiscated by the prison administration on October 9 under the pretext of a search.
Şahin, whose bone protrusions have become prominent due to weight loss, described the removal of the mattresses as ill-treatment aimed at breaking his resistance.
Worsening Health Problems and Treatment Obstacles
Şahin is struggling with various health problems such as severe weight loss, muscle atrophy, stomach issues, and borderline intraocular pressure.
He conveyed that he cannot access the necessary treatment for an eye examination due to overcrowding in the prison and cannot see a doctor for his progressing eye prescription.
Developments Brought to the Parliamentary Agenda
EMEP Istanbul Deputy İskender Bayhan brought Taceddin Erol Şahin's conditions of detention in prison and the isolation practices he is subjected to onto the agenda of the Parliament.
Bayhan submitted a written parliamentary question regarding the issue.