Zia ud Din:
The recent orthodox treatment of law in Afghanistan, deeply rooted in faith, starkly reminds us of the Taliban’s historical stance on social codes. By codifying 35 articles and enforcing them legally, the regime of Mullah Habitullah has mirrored the Afghanistan of Umar’s era. Legalizing the denial of education to girls highlights the Taliban’s defiance of their commitments to the international community just three years ago in Doha.
In the 21st century, where the state exists to serve individuals rather than the other way around, such restrictions on personal freedoms serve as apocalyptic warnings. This brutal code of ethics is not only contrary to Islam but also against the spirit of Pashtun ethical standards.
The modern state thrives on enlightened education, the cornerstone of societal progress. Yet, this cruel moral framework undermines the education system of a war-torn country. The disenfranchisement of women in education manifests a deep-rooted patriarchal mindset. As Mary Wollstonecraft once said, “Strengthen the female mind by enlarging it, and there will be an end to blind obedience.” Even though Plato, 400 years ago, recognized the importance of women’s education, the Taliban of the 21st century falls short of this social wisdom. Thus, depriving women of education echoes a medieval, inhumane moral structure.
The list of social transgressions extends to dress codes for women. Obligatory veiling and conservative attire are matters of grave concern. In addition, the suppression of women’s voices outside the home, brutal punishments, and limiting their roles to household tasks create a misogynistic society. Three years ago, many analysts were hopeful that Taliban 2.0 would be progressive, but this regime has crossed every boundary. Even Islam acknowledges the rights and freedoms of women. During the reign of the second caliph, a woman argued with Hazrat Umar in a mosque, and proved her point, and he accepted it with an open heart. Therefore, the recently documented law is the manifestation of their own version.
The general population is also deeply discontented. Those who are late for prayers are subjected to punishment. Similarly, music and photography are banned, and penalties are imposed for any connection with the opposite gender. These restrictions on political freedom, the general will of the people, and state regulation of personal life are all validated by legal frameworks. The regime also promotes the gentle enforcement of these laws and punishments. Now, people must live under the shadow of new moral principles laid down by this theocratic regime. On the other hand, the implementation of these laws has silenced dissent, media, and activists. Such coercive measures will only lead to economic, political, and moral stagnation.
These oppressive moral frameworks have consequences beyond Afghanistan’s borders. For instance, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), inspired by this regime, has imposed similar restrictions on personal and social life in some regions of former FATA. The deadlock between the militants of TTP and Pakistan persists because they aim to impose their own version of Islamic Sharia in the country. The Taliban’s codification of laws in Afghanistan is nothing more than a moral boost to conservative militant groups.
This raises a critical question: how can armed groups govern a country already devastated by long-lasting war? They have no de jure power to rule, only de facto control of the land. To date, only the UAE has recognized the Taliban as the legitimate ruler of Afghanistan. The UN, European Union, and Amnesty International have all expressed concerns over the situation.
Some voices have praised the regime for its governance efficiency, comparing it to the previous democratic administrations. However, such arguments lack merit, as the earlier regimes governed amidst war. The modern state exists to serve the masses, and public welfare is the ultimate goal. Even if governance resonates with some level of effectiveness, the many restrictions have left the Afghan people deeply discontented.
The repercussions of these actions cannot be ignored. The ultra-conservative character of the newly codified laws is a significant blow to the future of Afghanistan. Several countries, including Russia, China, and Pakistan, are attempting to build ties with the Taliban. To restore a pluralistic and inclusive order, these states must exert significant pressure on the incumbent regime. Furthermore, the UN must remind the Taliban of their commitments made in Doha. Ultimately, the priority must be to uphold the human rights and dignity of the Afghan people.
The writer can be reached at: [email protected]
