But the Constitution forbids altering this clause and the commission is going to consult experts on the subject. In the event of a compromise, the draft will be discussed in the Constitutional Commission before being presented to Parliament for voting by the full body of M.P.s. There is no obstacle to the revision of Article 8 of the Anti-Terrorism Act since clauses of present day criminal law suffices to punish incitement to criminal activity or propaganda in favour or terrorist organisations. The sole purpose of Article 8 is to punish 'crimes' of thought and consequently it should be abolished. Article 312 of the Turkish Penal Code does not have to be entirely revised.
Similar provisions exist in nearly all countries.
Article 312 has been the subject of many justified criticisms in Turkey because it was used in trials regarding the exploitation of religion after Article 163 of the Penal Code was abolished. The preamble to the Constitution, as well as Articles 14 and 24 punish the abusive exploitation of religion and reinforce legislation to this effect. Freedom of association. The existing law should be completely re-examined. A more appropriate solution should be devised in a new law.