Jailed Iranian Activist Taken to Hospital Without Compulsory Hijab

Sedigheh Vasmaghi, a scholar and vocal critic of the Islamic Republic jailed in Evin prison, was transported to the Farabi Hospital in Tehran without wearing a headscarf for an eye examination, her Instagram account reported.

In this rare move, Vasmaghi was accompanied to the hospital by two male agents and one female agent.

This religious scholar, known for her longstanding criticism of the Islamic Republic's mandatory hijab policy, decided to remove her headscarf following the 2022 nationwide protests.

She is currently being held in Evin prison and has been denied access to medical care despite her urgent need for treatment.

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.