The historical television series Mehmed: Fetihler Sultanı (Mehmed: Sultan of Conquests), broadcast on Turkey’s state network TRT 1, has become the focus of a legal dispute following an official challenge originating from Chinese legal representatives. The controversy stems from a scene in the show’s 66th episode, which has drawn objections over its historical depictions and dialogue concerning East Turkestan.
In the episode, a delegation from the Yarkent Khanate is depicted visiting the Ottoman court, with the prominent literary figure Ali-Shir Nava’i presented as its envoy.
DIALOGUE TRIGGERS DIPLOMATIC REACTION
The core of the dispute centers on lines spoken by the character of Ali-Shir Nava’i during an audience with the Sultan:
“China, through its power, has decided to subject our men to slavery and our daughters to concubinage. There is only fear in those lands.”
The dialogue prompted a swift reaction from Chinese representatives, who characterized the portrayal as defamatory and politically motivated.
FORMAL LEGAL NOTICE SERVED TO TRT MANAGEMENT
A Chinese law firm, reportedly acting on a complaint submitted by an individual, formalized the grievance by issuing an official legal notice to the public broadcaster and the production company. Media observers note that the scale of the intervention suggests backing from state mechanisms.
According to the terms outlined in the notice:
An official public apology is demanded regarding the broadcasted scene.
The content is alleged to be “insulting and contrary to factual realities.”
A strict 30-day ultimatum has been imposed on the Turkish production team.
RECIPIENTS OF THE NOTICE
It is stated that the official warning was formally communicated to key individuals and organizations responsible for overseeing the broadcast; these include the following:
Muhammed Ziyad Varol, Director General of TRT
The General Directorate of Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT)
Miray Yapım (Production House)
Eyüp Gökhan Özekin, Producer
Ozan Bodur, Screenwriter
QUESTIONS SURROUNDING SCRIPTED MEDIA AND PUBLIC DISCOURSE
Despite the inclusion of standard disclaimers stating that the series is a dramatized work of fiction, the high-level legal demand has sparked wider debate within international media circles.
Commentators have also highlighted the precedent set when foreign entities attempt to regulate artistic and editorial standards in overseas television productions, raising broader concerns regarding global media governance and freedom of expression.
BROADCASTER’S POSITION AWAITED
As the 30-day deadline progresses, industry observers are watching closely to see how TRT management and Turkish authorities will respond. The outcome is expected to signal whether the network will pursue formal dialogue, issue a statement on artistic autonomy, or maintain its editorial stance.
PRODUCER REJECTS DEMAND, REAFFIRMS SUPPORT
In response to domestic news reports discussing the legal notice, Eyüp Gökhan Özekin, the producer of the series, issued an explicit public statement on social media rejecting any possibility of a formal apology to Chinese authorities.
Addressing the demands, Özekin stated:
“Our answer to China demanding a response (Sözcü TV), as well as to those representing their stance, on behalf of our team and company is clear: We have no regrets, and if necessary, we would produce the exact same scene again.
They have demanded an apology; however, our only apology is for not bringing the condition of East Turkestan and the Uyghur people to public attention sufficiently. East Turkestan represents a deeply felt concern for our community. Offering even the smallest measure of visibility and support to the Uyghur people brings us honor. This remains our firm position.”
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