Celebrations and events to mark the Kurdish New Year, Newroz, on March 21 have been banned in many cities across North Kurdistan and Turkey. The Newroz ban imposed by the AKP government through the governors under its rule is grounded on the goal of “hindering probable provocations during Newroz events including mass gatherings and demonstrations”.

The restrictions imposed by Şırnak Governor's Office said all events and activities in Şırnak city centre and its districts have been banned as of today until a further notice. The province of Mardin and all its districts are also facing a similar ban of events to mark the Kurdish New Year.

Newroz celebrations have also been banned in Istanbul and Doğubeyazıt, and allowed in Ağrı and Dersim only for March 21.

The celebration in Istanbul is set to take place in Bakırköy Halk Pazarı (Public Bazaar) area on March 20.

The mass celebration on March 21 will traditionally take place in the main Kurdish city Amed, which will be followed by the Newroz event in Cizre one day later.