A security source has denied claims circulated on social media that a number of prisoners have gone on a hunger strike in Torah prison.

The source asserted, Thursday that such claims are ‘bare of truth’ and are part of attempts to spread rumors and lies about the state with the aim of stirring up the public opinion.

On Tuesday, the Interior Ministry said that a total of 1,686 prisoners were pardoned, per a presidential decree on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan.

The step came as part of the ministry’s efforts to implement a modern concept of penal policy, provide inmates with all means of welfare and apply the procedures set for releasing rehabilitated convicts.

Presidential pardons are customary to national and religious occasions. According to article 155 of the constitution, the president is allowed to issue pardons only after a final ruling is issued.

However, the perpetrators of certain crimes are not eligible for pardon. These crimes comprise arms trafficking, terrorism, drug trafficking of more than 10 kilograms, “heroin” trade regardless of the quantity, and revenge killing.

Thousands of prisoners have been released over the past years as per a presidential pardon.