A court in Iran has upheld a flogging sentence for singer Parastoo Ahmadi after she was convicted of "offending public decency," state media reported. The conviction stems from a livestreamed concert in which Ahmadi performed without wearing a hijab and appeared in a sleeveless dress.
The ruling confirms a punishment that has drawn attention because it involves physical corporal penalties for what authorities described as a breach of public decency rules. Details released about the case identify the charge as related to Ahmadi's appearance and conduct during the online performance.
Background
Iran requires women to wear the hijab in public, and its authorities enforce dress codes through a variety of criminal and administrative measures. Cases involving public performances or online broadcasts have in the past been scrutinised by security and judicial bodies when authorities deem behaviour to contravene public decency standards.
Legal and social implications
The court's decision underscores the continuing role of Iran's judiciary in policing social behaviour, including in digital spaces. It may have implications for artists and performers who use livestreaming and other online platforms to reach audiences, an area where social norms and legal restrictions can come into conflict.
No further details about possible next steps in the legal process were provided in the initial report.