The Newroz fire was lit in Batman (Êlih). The event saw the participation of Democratic Regions Party (DBP) co-chairs Çiğdem Kılıçgün Uçar and Keskin Bayındır.

Thousands of people gathered in the city's Korik District and marched chanting slogans such as "Bijî Serok Apo", "Bê Serok jiyan nabe", "Jin jiyan azadî". 

The first Newroz fire of the year was lit in the neighborhood square, accompanied by the slogan "Bijî Serok Apo". 

'Newroz to demand freedom for Abdullah Öcalan'

DBP co-chair Keskin Bayındır said: "We will celebrate the fire of Newroz 2024 in the land where Mazlum Doğan was born. We will celebrate Newroz 2024 for the freedom of Mr. Öcalan and the freedom of the Kurdish people. From Newroz to the 31 March elections, we say to the Kurdish people everywhere, stand up, this is the day of the Kurds, the day is the day of freedom for the Kurds. Today is the day of success for the Kurds. Happy Newroz to all Kurdish people."

Bayındır said: "We started with the fierce fire of Newroz in Batman, Kurdistan. This spark spread in all the streets and villages, and millions of Kurdish people fought hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, around the Newroz fire. The fire they have lit for the existence of the Kurdish people and their city has continued to burn for nearly 50 years. This year, we will celebrate Newroz with great enthusiasm with our people."