Iran: Women Activists Protesting Islamic Law Mandating Hijab Sentenced 55 Years In Jail

Three women’s rights activists held in Iran’s Qarchak Prison (Shahr-e Ray) have been sentenced to a total of 55 years and six months in prison by Revolutionary Court of Tehran.

Yasaman Aryani, Monireh Arabshahi, and Mojgan Keshavar were informed of their sentences in the absence of their lawyers on 31 July (Wednesday), reports NCRI.

The court presided by the judge Mohammad Moghiseh sentenced each of these prisoners to 5 years in prison for “association and collusion against national security,” one year for “disseminating propaganda against the state,” and 10 years for “encouraging and preparing the grounds for corruption and prostitution.”

In addition to these charges, Keshavarz received 7.5 years in prison for “insulting the sanctities.” The judge had previously told the activists, “I will make you all suffer” while informing them of charges against them.

Reportedly, the activists were beaten, put in solitary confinement subjected to intense pressure and ill-treatment during interrogation to make forced confessions regarding their civil activities.

Noting the sentences, Amnesty International wrote, “Making criminals of women and girls who refuse to wear the hijab is an extreme form of discrimination.”

Incidentally, in March this year, Iran was given a seat on the United Nations women’s rights committee which judges complaints alleging violations of women’s rights.