A huge water park in Iran has been closed because women ignored a strict dress code

The closure comes on the eve of the anniversary of the death of Iranian Kurd Mahsa Amini. Amini, 22, died at the hands of police on September 16 last year after the vice squad arrested her for violating hijab rules. Her death sparked widespread protests in Iran.

According to its director, Mohammad Babaei, the huge complex was closed on Sunday evening, Iran’s Fars News Agency reported. He was told that the visitors “ignored the rules of chastity and the veil.” He said the water park complied with the law. Babai said the water park regularly reminded female visitors to adhere to a strict dress code. These measures have been in effect since the Islamic Revolution of 1979.

The famous Mojhaye Khrushan complex is claimed to be the largest indoor water park in the world. It has an area of ​​about 90 thousand square meters and is known as the “tourist pearl” of Mashhad. This northeastern city is one of the largest in Iran and is known as the final resting place of one of the most important Shiite clerics, Imam Reza.

Cemeteries

Iranian authorities have tightened controls on compliance with the dress code in recent months. Besides women, companies are also subject to strict surveillance. Parliament also agreed last month to tighten penalties and fines for not wearing the hijab.

The deputy police is expected to tighten her grip further over the next two weeks, because new demonstrations are expected. An Amnesty International investigation last month showed that efforts were being made in particular to prevent relatives of dead protesters from gathering in cemeteries. According to Amnesty International, relatives are subjected to intimidation, harassment and arrest.

“The Iranian authorities are trying to cover up their crimes,” said Diana Eltahawy, Deputy Director of Amnesty International. “While they increase the fear of the bereaved by preventing them from demanding justice and fairness or from planting flowers on the graves of their loved ones. As the anniversary approaches, families fear that the authorities will use repressive methods to prevent them from holding any celebrations.