In a tragic incident, a 16-year-old Iranian girl, Armita Geravand, has passed away after falling into a coma following an alleged altercation with morality police. The incident occurred on 1st October when Armita collapsed after boarding a Tehran metro train. Activists have accused the morality police of assaulting her for not wearing a hijab, although authorities assert that she fainted. State news agency Irna reported that Armita died on Saturday morning due to brain damage, after receiving 28 days of intensive medical treatment. While there is no immediate confirmation from her parents, human rights group Hengaw received a report claiming that Armita became the latest victim of forced hijab and died after 28 days of hospitalization.
The incident has drawn parallels with the case of Mahsa Amini, who died in custody in September 2022 after being detained by morality police for allegedly wearing her hijab improperly. Amini’s death sparked anti-government protests across Iran, resulting in a violent crackdown by security forces.
Although Iranian authorities released CCTV footage showing Armita boarding the train without a hijab, no footage from inside the train or the entrance to the station was shared. Hengaw alleges that Armita fell into a coma after an assault by special officers enforcing compulsory hijab. The group has called for an independent medical team from Médecins Sans Frontières and the International Committee of the Red Cross to investigate her death.
The death of Armita Geravand has ignited outrage and brought attention to the issue of forced hijab in Iran. Many Iranians are demanding justice and accountability from the government. The incident also highlights the need for increased protection of individual rights and freedom of choice. It is crucial for international organizations to investigate and shed light on these violations, advocating for human rights and gender equality.
The tragic and untimely death of Armita Geravand serves as a painful reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by women in Iran and the urgent need for reform. It is essential for the international community to continue supporting the fight for human rights and gender equality in Iran and around the world.
