Ministry Speaks out Against Music Protests

The Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance has reacted sharply to the recent cancelation of concerts in Bushehr.

Piruz Arjmand, the head of the Music Department at the Culture Ministry, told Shargh newspaper: “Those who have personal problems with the Lian band can approach the judiciary authorities; but these recent incidents are illegal...Those protesting against such concerts oppose any joy and healthy happiness for young people.”

The band, which performs folk music from southern Iran, was forced to cancel a performance in Bushehr following protests by a group calling themselves Hezbollah Umah.  In anticipation of further protests, a pop concert was also canceled. “We have maintained the security of many concerts with the help of security forces,” Arjmand, said. “But the Lian case seems to be an exception. It is the outcome of irrational protests.”

Arjmand told the paper that he was worried the protesters’ actions would force the younger generation to travel abroad to watch concerts. It was important to stand up to the protesters and ensure concerts went ahead. “We will not let such incidents be repeated,” he said.

Responding to reports that a Lian concert in Shiraz faced cancelation, Arjmand said the ministry was liaising with authorities in Shiraz. As far as it was concerned, he said, the concert would go ahead.

Read the original article in Persian

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Read the original article in Persian