Sahar, the “Blue Girl” and Football Fan, Dies Following Self-Immolation
Sahar Khodayari died one week after self-immolation at Motahari Hospital; a girl passionate about football who had attempted to enter Azadi Stadium dressed in men’s clothing. The death of the “Blue Girl” resonated widely across social media networks.
She was referred to in media and social networks by the names Sahar Kh. and Sara. A 29-year-old girl and football enthusiast who lost her life due to attempting to watch a match of her favorite team, Esteghlal, and the consequences resulting from this action. Sahar Khodayari died on Monday, September 18, as a result of 90 percent burns at the hospital.
She was arrested by police officers on charges of attempting to illegally enter a football stadium last March but was released after posting bail some time later. She was then informed that she had been sentenced to six months in prison. The “Khabaronline” website had previously reported that this girl was on a “no-visit” list.
On September 11, Sahar went to the Revolutionary Court to retrieve her mobile phone, but was told that the judge was on leave. After leaving the court, while shouting and, according to eyewitnesses, protesting something, she set herself on fire; a protest that resulted in her death.
The “Khabaronline” website reported that this football-loving girl had 90 percent burns and classified them as third-degree. Sahar was hospitalized at Motahari Hospital in the ICU and on a ventilator.
The hospital’s security even prevented journalists from speaking with her family. The news of Sahar’s death resonated widely across social media networks.
Prior to publishing the news of Sahar’s death, the Human Rights Watch website issued a report about her self-immolation, calling on international sports organizations to take action to lift the ban on women’s attendance at sports stadiums.
In this report, FIFA’s delayed response to the ban on women entering sports fields was criticized. The report referenced Article Four of FIFA’s rules opposing discrimination against women. Human Rights Watch called for FIFA and international organizations to punish violators of women’s rights.
Source: DW
