UN Special Rapporteur Expresses Concern Over Health of Tahir Naqvi, Imprisoned Lawyer in Evin

Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders, called on the Islamic Republic on Thursday, October 25, via her account on the social media platform 'X', to ensure the health and safety of Tahir Naqvi, a jailed lawyer. In her message, Lawlor emphasized that according to distressing news from Iran, Tahir Naqvi, a lawyer and imprisoned activist, has been deprived of hospital treatment and is placed alongside dangerous criminal inmates. The UN special rapporteur expressed concern for Mr. Naqvi's health and safety in Evin prison, stating: 'This raises serious concerns for his security that must be guaranteed by Iran.' Additionally, it was reported by the HRANA news agency that on Wednesday, October 24, Tahir Naqvi was prevented from being sent to the hospital by prison officials due to his refusal to wear prison clothes and use handcuffs and shackles. This imprisoned lawyer is now facing a new case filed by Evin prison officials, with charges including 'disturbing public order' and 'insulting prison officials.' According to this report, Mr. Naqvi has been sentenced by Branch 15 of the Islamic Revolutionary Court of Tehran, presided over by Judge Abolqasem Salavati, to one year in prison for the charge of propaganda against the regime and to five years for the charge of conspiracy and collusion. Moreover, he has been sentenced to an additional two years of travel ban and two years of deprivation of social rights and membership in political parties. The deteriorating health of Vareesha Moradi on the fifteenth day of a hunger strike in Evin prison has also been noted. The 'Freedom of Narges' coalition has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Narges Mohammadi and her access to medical treatment. Nika's mother has been deprived of her 'right to visit' eight days after her arrest.