Iranian Actress’s New Salon Shut Down for Hijab Violations

Authorities in Iran closed down a beauty salon owned by Iranian actress Sareh Bayat for allegedly violating hijab codes, IranWire reports, just two days after its opening.

The Public Security Police of the capital Tehran made an official statement on Monday, June 19, saying that the salon had been referred to the judicial authorities. 

The closure was prompted by alleged "violations of the hijab code and the publication of related videos on social media," which authorities considered offensive to the public.

All women in public spaces in Iran must conceal their hair with a headscarf, or hijab, and wear loose fitting trousers under their coats.

Videos of Sareh Bayat's beauty salon opening went viral online due to the presence of prominent actor Mohammad Reza Golzar. 

Following the publication of these videos, government supporters online expressed disapproval, criticizing the presence of women without mandatory hijab. Several people demanded the government take action against the salon.

Over the past several months, the Iranian government has intensified its efforts to enforce compulsory hijab for Iranian women and girls. Businesses that cater to customers not adhering to hijab regulations have become targets. Numerous businesses have been forced to close their doors – causing thousands to lose their livelihoods.

But in an act of defiance against the ideology and laws of the Islamic Republic, a growing number of women, including celebrities, have appeared in public without head coverings since nationwide protests began last year. 

Iranian authorities have unleashed a brutal crackdown on anti-government demonstrations sparked by the September 2022 death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in the custody of morality police. Amini had been arrested for allegedly wearing a hijab improperly.

Activists say more than 520 people have been killed and over 20,000 others have been detained in connection with the protests so far.

Following unlawful detentions and biased trials, the judiciary has handed down stiff sentences, including the death penalty, to protesters.