Protests Rage Across Iran As Rights Group Reports 19 Minors Killed
-
Salma Hossein
- . October 10, 2022
- . Update: November 11, 2022 12:41 am
Protests ignited by the death of an Iranian Kurdish woman, Mahsa Amini, 22, in police custody continue across the Islamic Republic of Iran as the Norway-based Iran Human Rights group reports at least 185 people, including 19 minors, have been killed in demonstrations.
Anti-government protests first began on September 17 at the funeral of Amini in Saqqez, the capital of Saqqez County, Kurdistan Province, Iran. Subsequently, protests spread across various cities and districts of Iran.
The biggest protests in almost three years have turned into the biggest challenge to Iran’s clerical leaders as many protesters are calling for the downfall of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran Human Rights reportedly said, “At least 185 people, including at least 19 children, have been killed in the nationwide protests across Iran. The highest number of killings have been reported in Sistan and Baluchistan province of Iran, with half the recorded number.”
Read | Is West To Be Blamed For The Way Iran Burns Over Human Rights Violations?
Amini was arrested by Iranian morality police in Tehran, the capital of Iran, on September 13 for allegedly not complying with the country’s strict dress codes and wearing a loose Hijab. The police reportedly took her to a detention centre for a “re-education lesson” on Hijab and modest clothing. She died three days later.
Amini’s family and cousin said that she was assaulted in the police van. Amini’s cousin also said that she died after a “violent blow to the head.” Her cousin claimed that the Iranian morality police hit her in the head with the baton and she lost consciousness.
However, a state coroner’s report said that Amini had died from pre-existing medical conditions. Iran’s Forensic Organisation said in an official medical report that “Amini’s death was not caused by blows to the head.” The Iranian authorities have described the protests as a plot by Iran’s foes, including the United States.
