NCRI – The state-run daily Sharq cited Makarem Shirazi, a high ranking cleric as saying that the women’s veiling has turned into a major political issue for the religious dictatorship in Iran.
"Narcotics and improper veiling are among the worst problems that the country is facing today. Women’s veiling must be recognized as a major political issue and should be addressed in that manner."
These comments are made at a time when the country is taken by widespread protests due to poverty and severe repression. In June alone some 500 protests were recorded across the country in many of which protestors chanted anti-regime slogans. Azeri speaking provinces were the scene of violent clashes in early June which went on for over two weeks.