The Taliban administration in Afghanistan has further tightened restrictions on residents in Herat, intensifying enforcement of its strict social policies.
According to a report by The New York Times, the renewed crackdown follows directives from Taliban supreme leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, with authorities stepping up implementation of existing regulations.
The report states that women are being detained over alleged violations of the Taliban’s dress code, while men are reportedly being arrested for failing to comply with beard requirements. The intensified enforcement has reportedly forced many women to limit their movement outside their homes due to fear of arrest.
At least 30 women were reportedly detained within two days for alleged dress code violations. Local human rights organizations claim the total number of women arrested in Herat has now exceeded 200.
The report adds that the Taliban’s hardline policies are also affecting girls’ education, with many parents reportedly keeping their daughters out of school out of concern for their safety and possible repercussions.
According to the report, the Taliban also imposed restrictions on Ashura-related religious ceremonies and processions observed by the country’s Shia community. It further noted that Afghanistan’s Shia population continues to lack meaningful representation in the Taliban-led government.
