Taliban imposes new restrictions on women, bans public speaking

Kabul: The Taliban's Ministry for the "Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice" has introduced new laws severely restricting women's rights in Afghanistan. These laws, endorsed by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, mandate full-body coverings for women and prohibit their voices from being heard in public.

Restrictions on Public Life
Women are now barred from singing, reciting, or reading aloud in public. The laws also prevent them from looking at men unrelated by blood or marriage. Violations can result in warnings, property confiscation, or detention.

Impact on Education and Employment
Since the Taliban's takeover, women have been banned from attending schools beyond the sixth grade and working at non-governmental organizations (NGOs). These restrictions have left many women, previously breadwinners, in dire poverty.

Broader Implications
The new laws extend beyond women, banning music, prohibiting men from shaving their beards, and mandating adherence to religious practices. Media outlets must now comply with Sharia law, which forbids the publication of images of living beings.

UN's Response
A recent UN report highlights the climate of fear and intimidation fostered by these laws, especially for women and girls. The Taliban has dismissed these concerns.

(With ANI inputs)