Iranian Singer Sentenced to 74 Lashes for Performing Without Hijab

Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi and seven other artists were sentenced to 74 lashes for performing without hijabs during an online concert ^[1], ^[2].

The ruling underscores the Iranian government's continued use of corporal punishment to enforce mandatory dress codes, particularly for women in the public eye. By targeting artists for digital performances, the state signals that its morality laws extend into the virtual space.

A court in the province of Qom issued the sentences after the artists appeared in a concert broadcast in December 2024 ^[3], ^[4]. The performance was streamed on YouTube, where Ahmadi and her colleagues appeared with their hair uncovered ^[5].

Under Iranian law, the failure to wear a hijab is a violation of mandatory dress codes. The court determined that the uncovered hair of the performers constituted a breach of these laws ^[5], ^[6].

In total, eight artists received the same sentence of 74 lashes ^[7]. While some reports focused on Ahmadi, the legal action targeted the entire team involved in the broadcast ^[4].

Additional reports indicate that the convictions may include travel restrictions, specifically an order prohibiting the defendants from leaving the territory ^[8]. The sentencing was reported this month, nearly 18 months after the original broadcast occurred ^[5].

The use of flagellation as a legal penalty remains a point of international contention. Human rights organizations have frequently criticized the Qom courts for utilizing such punishments to suppress cultural expression and women's autonomy, a trend that has persisted despite global pressure.