New Delhi, 31 March 2026 — A desperate plea from an aunt in India has brought renewed
attention to the case of Mr. Peyvand Naimi, a young Bahá’í imprisoned in Iran, who is reportedly
facing torture, mock executions, and forced confessions on fabricated charges—without trial.
For Ms. Paria Sabet, a resident of Srinagar and a respected educator, the crisis is both urgent and
deeply personal.
“Peyvand has always been a gentle, kind-hearted young man, known among family and friends
for his honesty, humility, and deep sense of integrity. He treats everyone with respect and
compassion and has never been associated with violence or wrongdoing. Raised with strong
moral values, he has always stood by truth and fairness, even in difficult circumstances.”
“As his aunt, I cannot bear to imagine what he is enduring. The thought of him facing mock
executions—not once, but twice—along with torture and isolation, is unbearable. I appeal not
just as his aunt, but as a human being—please do not let this injustice continue. He deserves a
chance to live freely, without fear, without torture, and without the shadow of execution. I urge
all those in positions of authority—please act now. His life depends on it.”
Ms. Sabet has appealed to both the media and government authorities in India to take urgent
steps to exert pressure on the Iranian to halt the imminent persecution and possible execution of
her nephew.
In recent weeks, his case has drawn growing global concern. Urgent appeals have spread widely
across social media, while representatives of several countries have raised the issue at the highest
levels, calling on Iranian authorities to ensure his immediate release.
Mr. Naimi, a young professional from Kerman, was arrested on 8 January 2026 and taken into
custody by Iranian authorities. He has been accused of participating in anti-government protests.
However, in his defence, it has been pointed out that the charges are fundamentally flawed, as
they relate to incidents that allegedly took place at a time when he was already in detention.
Despite this, authorities continue to pursue these allegations, which carry the threat of capital
punishment.
Reports indicate that he has faced two mock executions—recognized internationally as a form of
psychological torture—along with repeated beatings, prolonged interrogation, and denial of food
and water. During one period, his hands and feet were bound for 48 hours, and he was tied to a
wall and beaten. He is currently being held in solitary confinement and is reportedly suffering
from deteriorating physical and psychological health, while being denied access to medical care.
The family fears for his life. For the Bahá’í community in Iran—known for its non-violent and
law-abiding nature—appeals to the international community remain their only hope. They are
calling on governments, international organizations, and civil society to act decisively to ensure
his safety and uphold his fundamental rights.
Ms. Nilakshi Rajkhowa, Director of the Office of Public Affairs of the Bahá’ís of India, stated:
“Subjecting a young individual to torture, coercion, and denial of due process is a grave violation
of human dignity and justice. The reported use of mock executions and prolonged mistreatment
is deeply alarming and calls for urgent attention from the international community. Upholding
the rule of law and protecting fundamental human rights must remain a shared global
responsibility.”
The case of Mr. Naimi reflects a broader and long-standing pattern of persecution. The Bahá’ís
in Iran, the country’s largest religious minority, have faced systematic discrimination and
repression for decades, particularly since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979.
Today, Bahá’í communities are spread across the world, contributing constructively to the
societies in which they live.
India is home to a vibrant Bahá’í community guided by principles such as the oneness of
humanity and the unity of religions. One of the most visible expressions of these ideals is the
Bahá’í House of Worship—commonly known as the Lotus Temple—in New Delhi, a symbol of
peace, inclusivity, and unity.
Ms. Sabet herself came to India as a student to pursue higher education. Following the 1979
revolution and the escalation of persecution against Bahá’ís, she was unable to return to Iran due
to the risk of arrest and imprisonment. Today, she is a valued member of Indian society and a
respected educator, contributing meaningfully to her community while carrying the enduring
pain of separation from her homeland.
The Bahá’í community of India has called on governments, international organizations, and civil
society to act immediately to ensure Mr. Naimi’s safety, guarantee access to medical care, and
uphold his right to a fair and transparent legal process.
Author: Sanjeevni Today
Reporter
