Multiple Sources Report Detentions in Kabul Over Hijab Non-Compliance
In western Kabul, several girls have been detained by Taliban forces for not adhering to strict hijab regulations, according to Afghanistan International's sources.
In western Kabul, several girls have been detained by Taliban forces for not adhering to strict hijab regulations, according to Afghanistan International's sources.
These individuals, detained from shops and streets, were reportedly taken to an undisclosed location.
Two independent sources confirmed the arrest of three girls in Dashte Barchi area of Kabul city. Owing to the sensitive nature of the situation, the girls' families have chosen to remain anonymous.
On Monday, Taliban officials were seen enforcing hijab compliance in various areas in Kabul. A Taliban member from Kabul's 13th police district relayed a message from the Ministry of Affairs, stating that women failing to wear the Islamic hijab as prescribed would be apprehended. According to the Ministry of Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, non-compliant women will be detained at police stations and must have relatives assure future compliance to secure their release.
Despite acknowledging the arrests as regrettable, the Taliban member emphasised the importance of following the hijab mandate. Additionally, reports from western Kabul indicate that private school teachers are warning female students about being barred from classes for not meeting hijab requirements.
This enforcement follows a 2022 directive by the Taliban, threatening 'punishment' and a three-day imprisonment for relatives of women who do not comply with hijab standards. Government employees face dismissal for non-compliance. The directive specifies that the hijab must cover all but the eyes.
