Tehran [ Iran ], March 15 (ANI): Iran is increasingly deploying advanced surveillance technology, including drones , facial recognition , along with a state-supported mobile application, to implement its compulsory measures hijab According to CNN, reporting based on a United Nations report issued on Friday, laws were discussed.
The research indicates an increasing dependence on digital means to monitor and punish women who do not adhere to the stringent dress regulations.
The UN report highlights how Iran has increased its utilization of artificial intelligence and large-scale surveillance To stifle disagreement, with particular focus on women and girls. An important aspect of this initiative is the “Nazer” smartphone app, allowing both law enforcement officials and citizens to flag women who breach the regulations. hijab The application enables users to report a car’s license plate number, along with details such as the location and the exact time when the offense occurred. Following this submission, relevant authorities are informed accordingly.
Once flagged within an online database, the application notifies law enforcement officials and simultaneously sends out an automated SMS to the car’s registered owner. This notification warns about the violation committed. Additionally, it informs them that multiple infractions might result in having their vehicle towed away.
Investigators found that Iran Has broadened the app’s reach by incorporating it with law enforcement via the FARAJA website. By September 2024, the service extended its protection to encompass women using ambulances, taxis, and public transport systems, thereby enhancing oversight of communal areas, as per CNN reports.
Along with the application, the Iran The government has started sending airborne units drones in Tehran as well as monitoring in southern areas hijab adherence. Security cameras fitted with facial recognition Software was also implemented at the entrance of Amirkabir University in early 2024 to monitor female students not complying with the dress code.
Though Iran The proposed "Hijab and Chastity" law was put on hold in December 2024 due to ongoing discussions within the country, but the report cautions that this remains a significant risk. Should the bill be passed, violators could face harsh consequences such as imprisonment for up to ten years along with hefty fines amounting to $12,000.
The legislation would additionally confer Iran 's security forces expanded authority to enforce hijab rules, thereby amplifying the utilization of surveillance Technology. As per Article 286 Iran According to Iran’s Islamic Penal Code, as mentioned in the report, women charged with "corruption on earth" might be subject to capital punishment, CNN noted.
The UN report occurs amidst pervasive demonstrations against Iran 's hijab Laws and wider political and societal complaints sparked demonstrations in 2022 after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini while in the custody of the morality police. The United Nations reported that hundreds of individuals were killed during the subsequent suppression efforts. (ANI)