The matter did not stop at challenging the president’s authority, but extended to weakening the standing of the law and institutions whose foundations were established by the Constitutional Revolution. While the authorities suspended the implementation of the “Hijab and Chastity” law to avoid further social unrest, the morality police resumed pursuing companies, shops, and cafés that allow their patrons freedom regarding the hijab, at a time when Iran needs social and economic stability more than ever. Yet these hardliners draw strength from those obsessed with religious narratives surrounding Iran’s awaiting the Imam of the End Times, and the belief that improper hijab prevents his appearance!
