Iran’s parliament has recently passed a contentious bill that could potentially lead to severe penalties for women and girls who are found to be in breach of the country’s stringent dress code.
Under the provisions of this newly passed bill, individuals deemed to be dressed “inappropriately” in public spaces could face imprisonment for up to a decade, for which a three-year “trial” was agreed upon.
While this controversial legislation has cleared one hurdle, it still awaits approval by the Guardian Council before becoming law.
Under the provisions of this bill, women and girls who are deemed to be dressed “inappropriately” in public places could be subjected to a “fourth degree” punishment.
According to Iran’s penal code, this means a prison sentence ranging from five to 10 years and a fine of between 180 million and 360 million rials ($3,651-$7,302).
Additionally, individuals found guilty of “promoting nudity” or “making fun of the hijab” on media platforms or social networks will also be subject to fines.
Furthermore, vehicle owners can be penalised if a female driver or passenger is not adhering to the strict dress code, according to AFP news agency. Those who promote violations of the dress code “in an organised manner” or “in cooperation with foreign or hostile governments, media, groups, or organisations” may face imprisonment for a period ranging from five to 10 years, the report says.
Despite these recent developments, a growing number of women and girls in Iran have chosen to forgo covering their hair in public, even in the face of the resurgence of the morality police and increased surveillance.
Iran’s strict interpretation of Sharia law mandates that women and girls above the age of puberty must wear a hijab and don long, loose-fitting clothing to conceal their figures.
Currently, non-compliance carries a prison term of between 10 days and two months or a fine ranging from 5,000 to 500,000 rials ($0.10-$10.14 at the black market exchange rate), as reported by news agency BBC.
