Baha'i Leaders In Iran Sentenced To 20 Years

CNN reported yesterday that in Iran, according to the Baha'i International Community, seven top Baha'i leaders who were arrested in 2008 and held without charges have now each been sentenced to 20 years in prison.  During the trial, the accused had only about one hour's access to counsel. Among the charges eventually filed against the leaders were espionage, propaganda activities against the Islamic order, and the establishment of an illegal administration. An appeal of the sentences is being undertaken. Baha'i is Iran's largest non-Muslim minority, and members of the Baha'i faith have traditionally been discriminated against by the government in their religious exercise and in their access to public services.