An Iranian court has sentenced singer Parastoo Ahmadi and eight members of her production team to 74 lashes each over a livestreamed performance in which she appeared without a hijab.
According to reports, the ruling was issued by a criminal court in Qom province in connection with a 2024 concert that was broadcast on Ahmadi’s YouTube channel. Authorities accused the group of producing and sharing “vulgar and immoral content,” citing violations of public decency laws.
In addition to corporal punishment, the court imposed a two-year travel ban on those involved and prohibited them from engaging in artistic activities during that period.
The case stems from a December 2024 performance in which the 29-year-old singer performed the patriotic song Az Khoone Javanane Vatan without adhering to Iran’s mandatory dress code for women. The video went viral online gaining millions of views.
Ahmadi and several musicians were briefly detained following the performance but later released. However, legal proceedings continued culminating in the recent sentencing.
Human rights advocates and legal experts have strongly criticised the decision. Advocacy groups argue that such punishments violate international human rights standards and raise serious concerns about freedom of expression in Iran.
Legal analysts have also questioned the basis of the charges, stating that singing and producing music are not criminal offences under Iranian law. They contend that the sentence reflects broader efforts to suppress dissent and cultural expression.
The ruling has sparked widespread concern among artists and activists, with many viewing it as part of an ongoing crackdown on individuals who challenge social and cultural restrictions.
The case highlights the growing tensions between artistic freedom and state-imposed regulations in Iran, particularly regarding women’s rights and public expression.
Keywords:
Parastoo Ahmadi Iran case, Iranian singer lashes, Iran hijab law punishment, Iran artist crackdown, women rights Iran music ban
Asian Burg | Entertainment
