Concerns rise after Alevi homes ‘marked’ in Malatya neighborhood

MALATYA

Concerns have been raised in the Central Anatolian province of Malatya after the doors of several homes in an Alevi neighborhood were “marked” red in the early hours of Nov. 2.

Red crosses were painted on the front doors of 13 homes where Alevi families are living in the Cemal Gürsel neighborhood by unknown assailants, prompting the owners of the homes to notify the police.

Police have reportedly launched an investigation into the incident, which has stirred worries among Alevis, who follow a syncretic, heterodox form of Islam.

Upon learning about the incident, Pir Sultan Abdal Culture Association Malatya head Mehmet Topal visited the neighborhood and spoke to residents, who he said are “tense.”

“We can only guess what kind of violence or massacres these Alevi citizens may face in the upcoming period. We, as Alevis whose faith, philosophy and ways of living are being tried to be fit in a certain pattern, do not have to comply with others,” Topal said.

“We will live our faith and culture. We will continue to try to establish peace in this land,” he added.