Zohreh Dadras, a women’s rights activist and political prisoner from Rasht, was barred from attending the Ph.D. entrance exam for political science, despite having received her exam admission card. This restriction was imposed at the last minute, despite prior approval for her participation.
On Thursday, February 20, 2025, Zohreh Dadras, who is currently serving her prison sentence in Lakan Prison, Rasht, was prepared for transfer to the exam center when prison authorities, acting under orders from security agencies, prevented her from leaving.
Her mother wrote on Instagram: “All the administrative procedures for Zohreh’s participation were completed, and even her exam admission card was issued. Yet, without any explanation, they barred her at the last moment.”
Zohreh Dadras, a graduate of political science from the University of Tehran, was previously arrested at her family home on July 10, 2024, and transferred to Lakan Prison to serve her sentence. She was sentenced by Branch 3 of the Rasht Revolutionary Court to a total of 9 years, 6 months, and 2 days of imprisonment on charges of “forming an illegal group against national security” and “assembly and collusion.”
This incident is not only a blatant violation of the right to education but also a clear attempt to silence women who, despite relentless pressure, continue to stand up for their rights and the rights of others.
