Urgent Plea for Bahá’í Prisoner in Iran: Family Seeks Global Support

Aunt's Heartfelt Appeal for Peyvand Naimi

New Delhi, 31 March 2026 — A heartfelt appeal from an aunt in India has reignited focus on the plight of Mr. Peyvand Naimi, a young Bahá’í currently imprisoned in Iran. Reports indicate he is enduring torture, mock executions, and coerced confessions on false charges without any trial. For Ms. Paria Sabet, a respected educator from Srinagar, this situation is both urgent and deeply personal.

“Peyvand has always been a gentle and kind-hearted individual, known for his honesty and integrity among family and friends. He treats everyone with respect and compassion and has never been involved in violence or wrongdoing. Raised with strong moral principles, he has consistently stood for truth and fairness, even in challenging situations.”

“As his aunt, I cannot bear to think about what he is going through. The idea of him facing mock executions—not just once, but twice—along with torture and isolation is unbearable. I appeal not only as his aunt but as a fellow human being—please do not allow this injustice to persist. He deserves to live freely, without fear, torture, or the threat of execution. I urge all those in power—please act now. His life is at stake.”

Ms. Sabet has reached out to both the media and Indian government officials, urging them to take immediate action to pressure Iranian authorities to stop the impending persecution and potential execution of her nephew.

In recent weeks, Mr. Naimi's case has garnered increasing global attention. Urgent appeals have circulated widely on social media, and representatives from various countries have raised the issue at high levels, urging Iranian authorities to ensure his immediate release.

Mr. Naimi, a young professional from Kerman, was arrested on 8 January 2026 by Iranian authorities, accused of participating in anti-government protests. However, it has been highlighted that the charges are fundamentally flawed, as they pertain to events that allegedly occurred while he was already in custody.

Despite this, authorities continue to pursue these allegations, which carry the risk of capital punishment.

Reports suggest that he has undergone two mock executions—recognized globally as a form of psychological torture—along with repeated beatings, prolonged interrogations, and deprivation of food and water. At one point, he was restrained for 48 hours and subjected to beatings while tied to a wall. Currently, he is in solitary confinement, suffering from deteriorating physical and mental health, and is being denied medical care.

His family is deeply concerned for his safety. For the Bahá’í community in Iran, known for its peaceful and law-abiding nature, appeals to the international community remain their only hope. They are calling on governments, international organizations, and civil society to take decisive action to ensure his safety and uphold his fundamental rights.

Ms. Nilakshi Rajkhowa, Director of Public Affairs for the Bahá’ís of India, stated: “Subjecting a young person to torture, coercion, and denial of due process is a serious violation of human dignity and justice. The reported use of mock executions and prolonged mistreatment is extremely alarming and requires urgent attention from the international community. Upholding the rule of law and protecting fundamental human rights is a shared global responsibility.”

Mr. Naimi's case reflects a broader and long-standing pattern of persecution faced by the Bahá’ís in Iran, the country’s largest religious minority, who have experienced systematic discrimination and repression for decades, especially since the Islamic Republic was established in 1979.

Today, Bahá’í communities are found worldwide, contributing positively to the societies they inhabit. India is home to a vibrant Bahá’í community that is guided by principles such as the oneness of humanity and the unity of religions. One of the most prominent symbols of these ideals is the Bahá’í House of Worship, commonly known as the Lotus Temple, located in New Delhi, representing peace, inclusivity, and unity.

Ms. Sabet came to India as a student for higher education. Following the 1979 revolution and the subsequent rise in persecution against Bahá’ís, she could not 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 significantly to her community while enduring the pain of separation from her homeland.

The Bahá’í community in India has called on governments, international organizations, and civil society to act swiftly to ensure Mr. Naimi’s safety, guarantee access to medical care, and uphold his right to a fair and transparent legal process.