Iran Set To Impose , Harsher Punishments For , Violating Hijab Laws.
BBC reports that Iran has passed a controversial new bill increasing the prison terms and fines for women who break strict dress code laws.
According to the new bill, which still needs the approval of the Guardian Council to become law, anyone dressed "inappropriately" could face up to ten years in jail.
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The new measure comes one year after widespread protests over the death of Mahsa Amini, who died while being held by morality police for violating hijab laws.
In response to Amini's death, women burnt their headscarves at nationwide protests against the clerical establishment.
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Hundreds of people were reportedly killed in a crackdown by security forces in response to the demonstrations.
On September 20, members of the Iranian parliament voted 152 to 34 to pass the "Hijab and Chastity Bill.".
The bill would give any person caught dressed "inappropriately" a prison sentence between five to ten years and a fine between $3,651 to $7,302.
BBC reports that the bill also includes measures to punish anyone "promoting nudity" or "making fun of the hijab" on social networks and in the media.
Earlier in September, eight United Nations human rights experts said that the bill , "could be described as a form of gender apartheid, as authorities appear to be governing through systemic discrimination with the intention of suppressing women and girls into total submission.".
The bill also violates fundamental rights, including the right to take part in cultural life, the prohibition of gender discrimination, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to peaceful protest, and the right to access social, educational, and health services, and freedom of movement, United Nations experts, via BBC
