Second Case of Bahá’í Subjected to Mock Executions and Torture in Iran Raises Alarm Over Escalating Persecution

Mumbai / Ramesh Autade 

Disturbing new reports have emerged of the brutal torture of Mr. Borna Naimi, a 29-year-old Bahá’í and father of a three-year-old, who has endured at least two mock executions, electric shocks causing severe burns, and sustained physical and psychological abuse since his arrest in Kerman on 1 March.

His case, along with that of his cousin Peyvand Naimi, signals a deeply troubling escalation in the persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran—the country’s largest non-Muslim religious minority.

In the initial days of detention, Borna was subjected to repeated beatings, with blows to his ribs, chest, back, and sides. He was also moved between undisclosed locations and threatened relentlessly—particularly with harm to his wife and young daughter, including warnings that his child would be placed in a state orphanage if he refused to comply.

Under extreme duress, Borna was forced to sign a pre-written false confession implicating himself and Peyvand in the alleged killing of Basij guards during the January protests—charges for which no evidence exists. In reality, Peyvand was already in custody at the time, and Borna was at home with his family. No trial has yet been held.

The psychological toll has been devastating. Borna shares a close bond with his young daughter, who now believes her father has abandoned her. Fellow inmates describe him as the prisoner who keeps his child’s drawings and clothes beside him—quiet reminders of the life he is being denied.

According to Simin Fahandej, Representative of the Bahá’í International Community to the United Nations in Geneva:

“It is impossible not to feel immense heartbreak for this family, who have suffered such cruelty solely for their faith. History will remember not only these merciless acts, but also the courage of those who remain steadfast in their beliefs despite unimaginable pressure.”

Borna was reportedly held in what detainees refer to as the “death suite”—a section reserved for prisoners awaiting execution—confined in a small, windowless space where he could not distinguish day from night. He was later subjected to further torture, including repeated electric shocks that left burns on his legs.

These abuses mirror those inflicted on Peyvand, who previously endured mock hangings and torture. His forced confession was broadcast on state television earlier this year.

Together, these cases point to a disturbing pattern: the systematic targeting and scapegoating of Bahá’ís amid national unrest. As Iran faces ongoing internal and external pressures, authorities appear to be intensifying efforts to falsely implicate members of the Bahá’í community in acts of violence.

Ms. Fahandej further stated:

“These cases reveal a relentless attempt to fabricate accusations and portray innocent individuals as perpetrators of crimes they did not commit. Such actions not only endanger lives but deepen a longstanding pattern of persecution aimed at isolating and silencing an entire community.”

Currently, at least four Bahá’ís remain imprisoned in Kerman as part of this campaign: Peyvand Naimi, Borna Naimi, Shakila Ghasemi, and Adib Shahbazpour.

For further information, please contact:

Mrs. Nargis Gaur

📞 7400038249