An Istanbul writer of Armenian descent, journalist of the Turkish Taraf newspaper Sevan Nishanyan is sentenced to 3 years and 4 months in jail allegedly for illegal construction.

The decision is conditioned by the recent decision of Izmir province’s administration to demolish illegal buildings known as the “Nishanyan houses” which caused uproar in the Turkish society, Zaman newspaper writes. Under the court’s judgment Sevan Nishanyan will also have to pay 160 lire fine.  

Talking to the journalists, Nishanyan said the process resembles a childish game. “I forgive the judge,” he added.

The administration of Turkish province of Izmir made a decision on demolition of 22 buildings in the village Sirinje, a famous tourist attraction of the province. Over16 houses were designed by the renowned writer, a linguist, a correspondent of “Taraf” newspaper Sevan Nishanyan.

The place with houses of unique architectural solutions has become a tourism spot.

According to Nishanyan, the authorities are trying to destroy him by this decision. The authorities also decided to demolish illegal buildings of other rural residents.

“If they want blood, there will be blood. Bureaucracy can win this time too, but they will not win the battle as they are fighting against the people,” he said.