An Iranian appeals court has upheld a sentence of 74 lashes for Parastoo Ahmadi, a 29-year-old singer, after she performed without wearing the mandatory hijab. The performance, which was livestreamed on her YouTube channel in December 2024, went viral and attracted millions of views. Ahmadi's lawyers confirmed that the appeals court rejected their appeal without holding a hearing. The case has sparked widespread criticism from Iranian musicians, human rights groups, and others.
Iranian law requires women to cover their hair and wear modest clothing in public, and public performances by women are prohibited. Ahmadi's performance was deemed to be in violation of the country's legal and cultural regulations, leading to proceedings against her by Iran's judiciary. In June, a criminal court in Qom found Ahmadi and eight members of her band and production team guilty of offences including offending public decency.
The original sentence sparked widespread criticism, including from exiled singer Googoosh, who wrote on Instagram that women should regain the freedom to choose how they live and dress. Musician Hossein Alizadeh expressed his willingness to take 70 lashes in Ahmadi's place. Amnesty International also criticised the sentence, saying that flogging constitutes cruel, inhuman, and degrading punishment.
The case comes amid continued tensions over Iran's compulsory hijab rules, which became a major focus of nationwide protests following the 2022 death in custody of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. Since then, many Iranian women have appeared in public without head coverings in defiance of the dress code, while authorities have responded with arrests, warnings, and other measures.
Ahmadi's lawyers expressed disappointment with the appeals court's decision, stating that holding the concert was not a crime and that the trial court imposed one of the harshest punishments available. They noted that fines and less severe penalties were also available. The lawyers believe that the main reason for issuing this judgment was to deter the recurrence of similar events.
The Iranian judiciary's decision has been met with dismay from the music industry and human rights groups. Many are calling for greater freedom of expression and an end to the compulsory hijab rules. The case has highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women in Iran who seek to express themselves freely.
The confirmation of the sentence has sparked renewed debate about the role of women in Iranian society and the limits of artistic expression. As the case continues to garner international attention, many are watching to see how the situation will unfold.
Key points
- An Iranian appeals court has upheld a sentence of 74 lashes for Parastoo Ahmadi, a 29-year-old singer, for performing without wearing the mandatory hijab.
- The case has sparked widespread criticism from Iranian musicians, human rights groups, and others.
- The Iranian judiciary's decision has been met with dismay from the music industry and human rights groups, with many calling for greater freedom of expression and an end to the compulsory hijab rules.
