Iran’s parliament approved a bill on August 4th, 2023, that mandates stricter hijab rules and imposes harsher punishments for violations. The bill, which has yet to be signed into law by Iran’s president, requires all women to wear a hijab in public places and allows for the punishment of those who do not comply with fines, imprisonment, or even lashes.
The bill has been met with widespread criticism from women’s rights groups and activists, who argue that it is a violation of women’s rights and freedoms. They also point out that the bill is discriminatory and will disproportionately impact women from minority groups and low-income communities.
The Iranian government has defended the bill, arguing that it is necessary to protect Islamic values and traditions. However, the bill has been criticized by even some conservative Iranians, who argue that it is too extreme and will only further alienate the Iranian people.
The bill is still under review by the Guardian Council, a body of clerics and jurists who have the power to veto legislation. If the bill is approved by the Guardian Council, it will become law.
It is important to note that the bill is still in its early stages, and it is unclear what the final version of the law will look like. However, the approval of the bill by the Iranian parliament is a sign that the government is moving towards stricter hijab rules. This is a concerning development for women’s rights in Iran.