Mumbai, March 26: A young member of Iran’s Baha’i community, Peyvand Naimi, is facing severe torture and a growing risk to his life while in detention, according to statements from the Baha’i International Community.
Arrest and detention details
Naimi, who was arrested on 8 January, is reportedly being held in Kerman Prison after initially being taken to a detention facility run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC). Authorities have accused him of inciting unrest during nationwide protests. However, human rights groups maintain that no credible evidence has been presented and that no formal trial has yet taken place.
Allegations of torture and abuse
The Baha’i International Community has alleged that Naimi was subjected to prolonged interrogation and repeated abuse in custody. Reported mistreatment includes physical assault, deprivation of food and water, and severe psychological torture, including two mock executions by hanging. A confession is also said to have been extracted under duress and broadcast on state television.
Community response
Nargis Gaur, secretary of the Local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of India, Mumbai, said: “Arrested on baseless charges, he has reportedly endured severe torture, forced confession, and prolonged detention without trial. Despite no evidence being presented, he remains imprisoned in worsening condition. His plight reflects the continued persecution of Baha’is since 1979 and underscores the urgent need for international attention and protection of his fundamental rights.”
Despite the release of several detainees in recent weeks, Naimi remains imprisoned. His family has raised concerns over his deteriorating physical and mental health, citing trauma and lack of access to necessary medical care.
Disputed allegations and concerns
Authorities have also accused him of involvement in the deaths of Basij personnel during protests—claims dismissed by advocates as fabricated, noting he was already in custody at the time. Additional allegations include celebrating the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, despite reportedly having no access to outside information.
Seema Indorewala, a member of Mumbai's Baha'i community, said: “It is really obnoxious that during a war, when people are already aggrieved, Baha'is are made scapegoats. Their properties are being destroyed and psychological pressure is being created through mock hangings.”
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Call for international intervention
From Geneva, Simin Fahandej condemned the treatment, calling for urgent international intervention. Human rights organisations say the case reflects a broader pattern of systemic persecution of Baha’is in Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, warning that Naimi’s continued detention places him in imminent danger.
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