Iran Washington has put its controversial “Hijab and Chastity Law” on hold for the time being, sparking discussion across the country and the world. This decision has come at a time when the anti-hijab movement gained momentum across Iran after the death of Mahsa Zeena Amini in 2022. The movement forced the government to reconsider its harsh laws related to hijab.
Mahsa Jheena Amini’s death sparked protests
Mahsa Jheena Amini, a 22-year-old woman, was killed in police custody. She was accused of violating the hijab dress code. This incident spread anger in every corner of Iran. Women took to the streets to express their displeasure by leaving their hair open and burning hijabs.
This protest was not limited to Iran only. People around the world demonstrated in support of Mahsa Amini. The Iranian government was criticized on the global stage. Human rights organizations termed it an attack on women’s freedom.
What is the controversial “Hijab and Chastity Law”?
This law of Iran has very strict provisions for women. Under this, if a woman does not completely cover her hair, arms or knees, she may have to face 15 years of jail and a heavy fine.
The law was supposed to come into effect last Friday, but was postponed due to objections from President Massoud Pezeshkian. He had said that this law is vague and needs reform. She also clarified that the government has no right to impose its wishes on women.
Strong reaction from human rights organizations
Human rights organization Amnesty International described it as a “repressive law”. They say that this law is an attempt to further crush the freedom of Iranian women and girls.
“Iranian authorities are already taking harsh measures to control women, and this law will make their lives even more controlled and difficult,” Amnesty said.
Protests erupted due to the arrest of Parastu Ahmadi
Meanwhile, the arrest of YouTuber Parastu Ahmadi further fueled the protests. Parastu posted a video on YouTube in a sleeveless dress, sans hijab, in which she was singing along with four male singers. This video went viral and after this he was arrested.
There were protests across the country after his arrest. The protesters said that this was part of the government’s policy of atrocities on women. Due to increasing pressure, Parastu and the band members arrested with him were released the very next day.
Joint statement of more than 300 activists
Last week, more than 300 writers, journalists and social activists in Iran issued a public statement against the new hijab law. He termed it illegal and unconstitutional.
“This law violates women’s rights and should not be implemented,” she said. This is an attack on the personal freedom of women.”
Changing social equation in Iran
Social and political equations seem to be changing in Iran amid women’s protests and criticism of the government. Women have made it clear that they will not compromise on their rights.
The Iranian government now faces a big challenge. On one hand she wants to keep the fundamentalists satisfied, while on the other hand she is looking for a way to calm the growing anger of women and youth.
Will this ban be permanent?
The National Security Council has put a hold on the law for the time being, but this is not a permanent solution. The fight for women’s freedom is not limited to just one law. It demands a change in the outlook of the entire society and the mindset of the government.
What does the future say?
This fight for women’s freedom is a long one. But the spark sparked by the death of Mahsa Zeena Amini has proved that Iranian women are no longer ready to back down.
