Shabtabnews In this dark night, I have lost my way – Arise from a corner, oh you the star of guidance.
Iranwire – Nearly a month after the arrest of prominent religious scholar and university professor Sedigheh Vasmaghi, a group of 320 Iranian political and civil activists has issued a statement demanding her immediate release.
Vasmaghi was arrested on March 16 on a charge of “opposition to the mandatory hijab.”
She is currently being held in Evin prison and has been denied access to medical care despite her urgent need for treatment.
The activists’ statement expresses deep concern about Vasmaghi’s health and well-being. It condemns her continued detention and criticizes the Iranian government’s broader crackdown on dissent.
The signatories, including notable figures such as Hashem Aghajari, Alireza Rajaei, Hassan Yousefi Ashkuri, and Mehdi Nasiri, argued that such practices violate fundamental rights enshrined in the Iranian constitution.
“Imprisoning dissidents, critics, and reformers not only goes against basic human rights but also harms the nation’s interests,” the statement reads.
The statement further emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law.
The activists warned that the judiciary’s inaction on Vasmaghi’s case undermines judicial independence.
Vasmaghi, who suffers from high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and severe chest pain, received initial treatment at the prison clinic on April 2.
However, despite a doctor’s recommendation for further hospitalization, prison authorities refused to facilitate her transfer.
She faces charges of “propaganda against the Islamic Republic” and “public appearance without a hijab.”
Her case is being heard by Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court.
Since March 24, Vasmaghi has been denied family visits due to her refusal to comply with mandatory hijab regulations.
