Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi released on bail after arraignment in Tehran
Iranian female singer Parastoo Ahmadi appeared at Tehran’s prosecutor’s office on Monday for an arraignment session.
During the session she was formally informed of charges against her for performing an online concert without a hijab, violating Iran’s dress mandates, Emtedad news website reported.
She was released on a 30-billion-rials (nearly $38,000) bail. Members of her band, who were also charged, were released on a 20-billion-rials (approximately $25,000) bail each.
On December 12, the Judiciary of the Islamic Republic issued a statement saying that Ahmadi's concert was held "without legal authorization and adherence to Sharia principles" and that "appropriate action" will be taken against the singer and production team.
The Caravanserai Concert, held December 11, quickly became one of the most discussed topics on Iranian social media.
Despite YouTube being restricted in Iran, the performance attracted over 1.5 million views over just three days, with clips widely shared online.
