The “Chastity and Hijab” law, set to be implemented soon, is regarded as one of the most significant measures aimed at reinforcing compulsory hijab in society. It has sparked widespread reactions and protests. This law is seen as a tool for exerting increased pressure and control over women.
This law consists of 74 articles, detailing various duties and responsibilities related to enforcing compulsory hijab and monitoring compliance.
The second section of the law explicitly outlines different penalties and fines for those who do not comply with hijab regulations.
These penalties include hefty financial fines, imprisonment, deprivation of certain social rights, and even “educational measures” for women and girls who fail to observe the hijab. Alongside fines, there are restrictions on accessing government services such as passport issuance, driver’s licenses, and other civil rights.
Additionally, building managers and ride-hailing drivers are required to monitor and report hijab compliance among the public, illustrating a widespread and oppressive surveillance system.
The “Chastity and Hijab” Law: A Repressive Plan
One controversial aspect of this law is its focus on girls aged 9 to 15, who are required to abide by hijab rules. This not only directly violates children’s rights but also imposes psychological pressure on this vulnerable group.
Additionally, financial penalties are imposed on them, raising widespread concerns about the erosion of children’s rights and the violation of their privacy.
The law has drawn criticism from legal experts, civil activists, and even some former Iranian officials. Many have described it as an example of “gender apartheid” and a violation of women’s rights and individual freedoms.
The passage of this law comes against a backdrop of heightened political and social repression, particularly since the 2022 uprising after the killing of Mahsa Amini by the Morality Police.
This law continues a pattern of using tools such as widespread executions and other repressive measures to instill fear and silence in society.
The main objective of these measures is to suppress society, particularly women, and create an atmosphere of fear and silence in the face of any opposition or protest.
Penalties and Fines
This parliamentary bill must be signed by the Iranian regime’s president by December 18. According to the law, the Ministry of Interior is responsible for its coordination, but numerous governmental and non-governmental agencies, from the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development to the police and even the Atomic Energy Organization, have roles in its implementation.
Penalties for not wearing the hijab include: “Receiving two warning SMS messages about improper hijab results in a fine of 150 million rials (approximately $215). Sixth-degree financial penalties range from 200 million to 800 million rials (approximately $285 to $1,140), while fifth-degree fines range from 800 million to 1.65 billion rials (approximately $1,140 to $2,357).”
Shockingly, individuals who fail to pay these fines are barred from accessing administrative, financial, and social services.
Those who do not pay their fines are denied access to social services, including passport issuance or renewal, vehicle registration or plate replacement, exit permits, vehicle release, and driver’s license issuance or renewal.
It is noteworthy that the minimum wage for a worker with two children is approximately 110 million rials (around $157).
