Iranian prison authorities have come under fire for denying medical care to Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi due to her refusal to wear a hijab. Mohammadi, who is serving multiple sentences in Evin prison, was in urgent need of treatment for a heart condition. However, the prison warden insisted that she could not be transferred without a headscarf, which Mohammadi staunchly refused to wear. This discriminatory action not only puts Mohammadi’s life at risk but also highlights the ongoing oppression of women in Iran.
Mohammadi’s family expressed concern for her well-being and condemned the prison authorities’ decision. They reported that a medical team visited the women’s wing of Evin to examine Mohammadi, but even the transfer to the infirmary was initially denied due to her refusal to wear a headscarf. The evaluation revealed severe blockages in her veins and elevated lung pressure, necessitating urgent further tests and treatment.
The family revealed that Mohammadi willingly risks her life by not complying with the forced hijab policy, even when it comes to medical care. They also highlighted the efforts of a group of women in Evin prison who protested in the prison yard, demanding Mohammadi’s transfer to a heart hospital. However, their pleas were dismissed by the prison warden, who cited orders from higher authorities prohibiting the transfer without a headscarf.
This incident is not isolated but rather indicative of the larger issue of oppression faced by women in Iran. Mohammadi’s Nobel Peace Prize was awarded for her fight against such oppression, particularly the mandatory hijab policy. Iran has enforced the compulsory hijab since the 1979 Islamic revolution, treating it as a means of control and repression imposed on society.
The refusal to provide proper medical care to Mohammadi due to her stance on the hijab is a violation of human rights and raises concerns about the treatment of prisoners in Iran. It also raises questions about the fairness and impartiality of the legal system that imposed her multiple sentences, totaling approximately 12 years.
The timing of Mohammadi’s Nobel Peace Prize, which followed widespread protests against Iran’s dress rules for women, further underscores the significance of her advocacy. The death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who died in custody, triggered months-long protests across the country. Amini’s arrest was related to her alleged violation of the strict dress rules. Mohammadi’s refusal to comply with the hijab requirement shows her unwavering commitment to challenging the oppressive practices imposed by the Iranian regime.
The denial of medical care based on a refusal to wear a hijab is an infringement on both religious freedom and the right to healthcare. It demonstrates the urgent need for international attention and intervention to address the systemic oppression faced by women in Iran. The international community, human rights organizations, and governments worldwide must condemn Iran’s actions and exert pressure to ensure the immediate provision of medical care for Mohammadi and the protection of her rights.
The situation also highlights the broader issue of systematic discrimination against women in various aspects of Iranian society. It is crucial to continue raising awareness about the oppressive practices, including mandatory hijab, and support Iranian women fighting for their rights.
The international recognition of Mohammadi through the Nobel Peace Prize serves as a platform to amplify her message and draw attention to the human rights abuses unfolding in Iran. It is a call to action for individuals, organizations, and governments to stand in solidarity with those facing oppression and tirelessly advocate for justice, freedom, and equality.
