24.05.2026 15:51
On the third day of protests at Istanbul Bilgi University, whose activities were suspended by a presidential decree, police intervened. Students and alumni at the SantralIstanbul Campus were subjected to pepper spray, and there were reports of detentions and injuries.
Protests launched by students and academics at Istanbul Bilgi University, whose activities were suspended by a presidential decree, have entered their third day. Students holding vigil at the Santral Istanbul Campus continue their actions against the closure of the university.
The protests, which began after the decision was published in the Official Gazette on the night of May 22, have escalated further with developments today.
RECTORATE ANNOUNCEMENT: "CAMPUS WILL BE CLOSED"
It was reported that Rector Ege Yazgan met with students late at night and announced that student and academic entry to the campus would not be allowed. It was stated that after it was announced that food supplies would also be blocked, an email was sent to students informing them that the campus would be closed due to Eid al-Adha. Following this decision, students called for action at 2:00 PM today.
TENSIONS RISE WITH POLICE INTERVENTION
While students, alumni, academics, and staff gathered at the school entrance, negotiations were held to remove the barricade set up at the turnstiles. However, tension increased when the gate was not opened.
Police teams passed through the turnstiles and set up barricades inside the campus. It was reported that riot police were deployed at various points on campus, and tear gas was used against the crowd waiting in front of the gate.
It was shared that some students were detained and injuries occurred during the scuffle.
STUDENTS INSIDE CAMPUS CANNOT ACCESS FOOD AND WATER
According to a report by Gazete Oksijen, approximately one hundred students continue their vigil inside the campus, and it was alleged that private security guards intervened to block water, medicine, and packaged food being delivered from outside.
Alumni and parents waiting at the gate tried to deliver essential supplies to the students inside.
NEW DEMANDS FROM STUDENTS
Istanbul Bilgi University students announced that they will not accept any decision regarding the evacuation or closure of the campus.
Students voiced demands for the removal of police forces around Santral Istanbul, allowing university members to enter the campus, and ending the blockade of food and water.
Academics and students also announced that if necessary explanations are not made, classes and campus life will be reorganized by the students.