Afghanistan’s de facto authorities, the Taliban, have introduced a sweeping new penal and criminal procedural code that critics say significantly tightens social and legal controls across the country.
The regulation, signed by Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, takes immediate effect and outlines new rules governing family conduct, criminal thresholds, and public morality enforcement.
“No Visible Injury” Clause Sparks Outrage
Under the new framework, husbands are reportedly permitted to physically discipline their wives and children under discretionary ta’zir provisions — provided the punishment does not result in severe visible harm such as broken bones, fractures, open wounds, or noticeable bruising.
If visible injuries occur, the maximum reported penalty is up to 15 days in detention — but only if the wife successfully proves the abuse under Taliban court procedures.
Legal observers say the burden of proof placed on women, combined with strict courtroom requirements, creates significant barriers to seeking justice.
Women Who Flee Homes Risk Imprisonment
The regulation also criminalizes women who leave their marital homes without their husband’s permission.
If a woman seeks refuge with relatives and refuses to return after a judicial order, both she and any relatives who assist her could face up to three months in prison, according to the provisions.
Analysts describe the code — reported to span between 90 and 119 articles — as further institutionalizing gender-based restrictions, while narrowly defining what qualifies as punishable domestic violence.
Expanded Morality Enforcement
Separately, Afghanistan’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has reinforced mandatory beard regulations for men.
Under the updated enforcement approach, men are required to keep beards longer than a fist length, in line with the Taliban’s interpretation of Islamic law. Barbers in several provinces have reportedly faced detention or shop closures for trimming beards deemed too short.
International Reaction Expected
Human rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about the erosion of women’s rights in Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.
The latest measures are likely to intensify scrutiny from global organizations and Western governments, as Afghanistan remains diplomatically isolated and economically fragile.
Observers say the new legal code signals a consolidation of authority by the Taliban leadership — and a continuation of policies that critics argue restrict civil liberties, particularly for women and girls.
Posts
0 Comments