Iran’s top judge signals tougher line on hijab
Iran’s judiciary chief said the current approach to hijab will not continue, outlining coordinated steps with police, prosecutors and regulators to curb what authorities call social disorders.
Iran’s judiciary chief said the current approach to hijab will not continue, outlining coordinated steps with police, prosecutors and regulators to curb what authorities call social disorders.
Part of today’s social disorder, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said, stemmed from conduct related to hijab.
“This situation should not continue, and none of us can be indifferent toward what the law and the expectations of religious citizens demand,” Ejei added.
Intelligence bodies, Ejei said, had received orders to identify groups he described as “organized promoters of improper hijab,” and that police were obligated to intervene when offenses were openly visible.
“With such cases there will be legal action,” he warned. Restaurants, cafés and other venues had been warned they would face firm measures if violations occurred on their premises, he added, noting that closures would no longer be limited to brief periods.
He also said government bodies involved in public ceremonies would be held accountable if “unlawful behavior” occurred at their events.
Lawmakers press for firmer action
155 lawmakers on Tuesday wrote to Ejei accusing the judiciary of passivity toward growing noncompliance with the dress rules.
They said uneven enforcement by executive bodies had fueled what they called social disorder, urging the courts to “restore governance” by ensuring all institutions apply existing regulations consistently.
The lawmakers also criticized some judges and officials for what they described as lapses "that had allowed moral decline and social abnormalities to spread," urging action within the current legal framework.
Tensions intensified after a leaked audio file suggested Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had issued written instructions for stronger implementation of the mandatory hijab following an intelligence ministry warning about declining discipline.
Officials confirmed the directive but rejected suggestions of cabinet disagreement, while conservative outlets described it as an explicit call for decisive measures.
Despite escalating pressure, many women and girls continue to appear unveiled in public spaces.
In numerous districts of the capital, uncovered women now form the majority on streets and in shops, while widely shared videos show mixed gatherings, music and casual clothing.
