Iran: UN rights chief concerned over arrests, excessive force following polls

[struggle4progress]

... “The legal basis of the arrests that have been taking place, especially those of human rights defenders and political activists, is not clear,” said High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay.

“What are the grounds for the arrests? Have proper warrants been issued in accordance with Iranian law? Why have some of those who have been arrested been denied access to lawyers and members of their families? And why is the whereabouts of others unknown?” she asked, urging the Government to guarantee that due process is followed to prevent fanning “the feelings of injustice.”

Stressing that the freedoms of expression and assembly are fundamental human rights, Ms. Pillay hailed the largely peaceful and dignified massive demonstrations in the capital, Tehran.

She voiced concern over reported violence by members of the Basij militia, which could be in violation of international and Iranian national law ...

http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=31196&Cr=iran&Cr1=