The Minister for the Propagation of Virtue, Prevention of Vice, and Complaints Hearing of the Taliban, Khalid Hanafi, has said that Afghan youth are not fully aware of religious matters and that when actions are taken regarding hijab, some people “criticize Islam.”
He made these remarks during a seminar for preachers of his group in Kabul. He added: “Hijab is an individual obligation (fard ‘ayn) and is mandatory for adult girls.” According to him, a girl who reaches puberty must be “covered from head to toe.”
Hanafi further stated that the recommendations and sermons issued by the Ministry regarding women’s hijab are beneficial to society. He also criticized the international community, questioning why it interferes in the issue of hijab.
These remarks come amid reports that in recent weeks, several women in Herat have been detained on charges of improper hijab—an action that has sparked reactions and criticism from local residents. Some residents and activists in Herat say that women in the province generally observe hijab and that there is no need for strict measures.
Meanwhile, Afghan activists abroad have also continued their protests and reactions against these actions, describing such treatment as a violation of women’s rights.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
