In the letter in question, the police noted that the film’s registration and classification application had been rejected by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2024. Whilst the letter did not contain a direct ban, it stated that the Ministry’s decision—deeming the film unsuitable for “commercial distribution and screening”—remained in force. The film crew decided to cancel the screening out of concern that it might lead to legal consequences.
The Ministry’s decision was initially ruled unlawful and annulled by the Ankara 3rd Administrative Court; however, the Regional Administrative Court subsequently overturned this ruling, finding the Ministry’s decision to be in accordance with the law. The film crew’s appeal is currently before the Council of State. “Rojbash,” which centers on Kurdish theater artists who have come together to re-stage a play they first performed some 30 years ago, had previously been screened free of charge at various festivals and events.