Prominent Iranian unionist and member of the syndicate of the workers of Haft Tapeh Sugar Cane complex, Ali Nejati, was taken to hospital on December 13, after "being harshly pressured under interrogation", the syndicate reported.

"Nejati is suffering from heart complication," the syndicate reiterated on its Telegram channel, adding, "he is suffering from several illnesses, including heart problems, and keeping him behind bars might seriously endanger his life."

Ali Nejati was arrested on Thursday, November 29 and his attorney, Farzaneh Zilabi, said that her client has been charged with "disrupting public order", "collusion and assembly against national security" and "cooperation in establishing a group intended to disrupt peace and security".

According to the syndicate, security forces stormed Nejati's house without presenting any legal warrants and arrested Mr. Nejati, his son, Payman, and his guest with force and violence. After interrogation, Mr. Nejati’s son and his guest were released, but Mr. Nejati remained in custody.

Furthermore, the syndicate has called upon all trade unions and relevant institutions in Iran and across the world to support Nejati and a young civil rights activist and journalist, Ms. Sepideh Qolian, who was arrested alongside him.

Earlier, the syndicate had also reported that the representative of the workers of Haft Tapeh Sugar Cane mill, Esmaeil Bakhshi, and Ms. Qolian were under mental and physical pressure.
Bakhshi was released on Wednesday, December 12, while Ms. Qolian is still behind bars.

Workers of Haft Tapeh Sugar Cane complex are currently on strike, demanding overdue wages and demanding the return of their plant's ownership to the Public Sector.