The increase in the Sunni religous cults operating in Tunceli (Dersim) (a mainly Alevi populated region) in Turkey has been reported by various media outlets recently.

The incidents have been criticised by various groups and has brought the issue of state assimilation up for discussion.

Yüksel Mutlu, the former co-Mayor of Akdeniz Municipality expressed that Alevi institutions should take action against the various cults operating in Dersim.

“All groups, especially Alevi institutions and leaders of religious sects, should come together and work for a road map,” said Mutlu..