The article authorizing the euthanasia of stray dogs was passed despite objections from animal rights groups and the opposition. The rest of the bill is expected to be voted today.
The Turkish parliament approved the controversial proposal for the euthanasia of stray dogs as part of the new "Animal Protection Law" amendment.
The first five articles of the 17-article law proposal were passed by the General Assembly early on Tuesday and discussions on the remaining articles are scheduled to resume at 2 pm local time.
The most contentious article is number 5, which allows for the euthanasia of stray dogs. It was passed in the 14th hour of discussions despite opposition efforts to remove it. The opposition's motions to exclude the euthanasia provision were rejected.
The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) aims to pass the bill before the parliament's recess on 1 August.
Members of civil society organizations, professional associations, animal rights activists, and some opposition MPs gathered in Ankara’s Anıtpark on Monday as the General Assembly session commenced.
DEM Party MP Perihan Koca also criticized the bill, calling it "a massacre law." She added: "You manipulated the public by saying 'euthanasia is being removed,' but you are bringing euthanasia back in the worst form."
