On Anniversary of Detention

The Human Rights Watch issued a statement on Thursday 14 May 2009, saying that Iran should immediately free seven detained Baha'i community leaders, or bring them promptly to trial so they can defend themselves in fair and open proceedings against the serious charges against them.



The seven men and women have been charged with spying for Israel, "insulting religious sanctities," and spreading propaganda against the Islamic Republic. In addition, prison officials at Evin prison in Tehran informed relatives visiting the detained men and women last week that they would also be charged with "spreading corruption on Earth" (mofsede fel arz), said Diane Ala'i, the Baha'i International Community's representative to the UN in Geneva. This offence is punishable by death under Iran's Penal Code.

For complete details please refer to Human Rights Watch website.