Military judges’ rights amended

ANKARA - Hürriyet Daily News

Parliament passed an amendment to the Military Service Law May 22 that will ensure military judges are subject to the same judicial procedures as their civilian colleagues.

Under the amended law, investigations could be opened against military judges automatically only if they are caught red-handed committing an offense that falls under the jurisdiction of the courts for serious crimes. For other offenses, opening a probe would require the permission of the defense minister. Security forces would not be able to detain military judges or search their homes or vehicles without such permission. Civilian judges already enjoy such privileges.

In another amendment to harmonize proceedings, the law stipulates that anonymous complaints and tip-offs can serve as the basis for launching investigations against military judges.