Iranian singer gets 74 whip shots after performing without hyjab

The concert that challenged regime rules

The concert, carried out in a traditional Iranian convoy, was broadcast online and became viral, gathering millions of views. Ahmad performed several songs on a simple stage accompanied by musicians dressed in black, while he himself appeared without the obligatory head covering, writes Daily Star, ..

Court: “immoral and vulgar content”

According to judicial documents, the Qom province's Criminal Court found the singer and eight members of its team guilty of publishing material that authorities named “vular and immoral”, claiming they violate public morality. In addition to whip sentences, artists have been banned from the country and the exercise of artistic activity for two years.

Strong Reactions From Human Rights Organizations

The decision has prompted harsh reactions by international human rights organisations, which have described the sentence as a threat to freedom of expression and women's rights. Juris and activists have argued that the singing of women is not a criminal act under Iranian law, and that whip punishment constitutes inhuman treatment.

A Challenge to Limits Symbol

Ahmad had been arrested temporarily after the video was released. Her case is considered by many activists as another example of Iranian authorities' pressure on artists and women who challenge mandatory dress rules and cultural restrictions in the country.