Taher Naqavi Refuses Treatment After Violent Encounter with Guards

Taher Naqavi, a lawyer and political prisoner, refused medical treatment at the hospital following violent behavior from prison guards towards his family. According to the Azerbaijani Political Prisoners Defense Association (ADAP), Mr. Naqavi was transferred to Shahid Hospital in Tajrish, Tehran, on Wednesday, March 13, after waiting nine months for medical treatment. However, due to the insulting and threatening behavior of Evin prison guards towards his wife and 14-year-old child, he declined to undergo treatment. ADAP reported that the prison doctor had deemed his transfer necessary for a sonogram and MRI nine months earlier, but the transfer had been delayed until finally, it occurred under the condition that the family would pay for the medical expenses. According to the report, Mr. Naqavi's wife and child, who had gone to Evin prison for a Nowruz visit, changed their route to the hospital after receiving a call from Mr. Naqavi about his transfer. However, they faced violent behavior, threats, and aggression from the prison's physical security guards upon arrival. The guards accused Mr. Naqavi's wife and child of possessing a mobile phone and attempting to take photographs, intending to fabricate a case against them, which led Mr. Naqavi to withdraw from his treatment to avoid distressing his family. The Azerbaijani Political Prisoners Defense Association stated that this behavior occurred while political prisoners are entitled to adequate medical treatment under domestic and international laws, yet Evin prison officials violate this right through illegal pressure and obstruction. Earlier, HRANA, a news agency for human rights activists in Iran, reported on Mr. Naqavi's 'prostate disease' and 'spinal problems.' This imprisoned lawyer has previously been denied hospital transfers and medical examinations multiple times for refusing to wear prison clothing and use handcuffs and leg shackles. Taher Naqavi, who has been sentenced to six years in prison and supplementary punishments for charges of 'propaganda against the regime' and 'collusion and conspiracy,' is currently facing new charges of 'disturbing public order' and 'insulting prison officials' following a complaint from Evin prison authorities.