The leftist demonstration in Turkey in 1969, known as the "Bloody Sunday" or "Kanlı Pazar," took place on February 16th. It was a significant event where leftist groups organized a protest against the U.S. Sixth Fleet's presence in Istanbul. The demonstration was part of a broader wave of anti-imperialist and anti-American sentiment prevalent among leftist groups during that period.

The Turkish government's response to the demonstration was marked by a heavy police presence and significant use of force. The police, along with right-wing nationalist groups, clashed with the demonstrators. The confrontation resulted in violence, leading to the deaths of at least two protesters and injuries to many others. The police were criticized for their harsh tactics and for failing to prevent right-wing groups from attacking the demonstrators.

The event highlighted the deep political divisions in Turkey at the time, with tensions between leftist and right-wing factions becoming increasingly pronounced. The government's response was indicative of its broader approach to leftist movements, which were often met with repression and strict measures to maintain order and curb perceived threats to national security.