Taliban Imposes New Restrictions On Residential Windows To Limit Visibility Of Women
Municipal authorities will now oversee new construction to ensure that such areas are covered, whereas existing houses will cover any existing windows.
The Taliban has imposed further restrictions in Afghanistan and has now banned the construction of windows in certain parts of the residential buildings that overlook when Afghan women are present.
According to an AFP report, additionally, the group has ordered that existing windows facing such areas must be blocked.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on social media platform X, that seeing women in kitchens, in courtyards or when collecting water can “lead to obscene acts”. “Seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards or collecting water from wells can lead to obscene acts,” according to the decree posted by him.
Municipal authorities will now oversee new construction to ensure that such areas are covered. Authorities have announced that in residential areas where windows offer a clear view of women’s work areas, property owners will be encouraged to construct walls or take measures to obstruct the view. This is to prevent any potential disturbances or inconveniences caused to neighbours, the decree states.
In a further effort to erase the presence of women in public life, the Taliban has implemented a law prohibiting women from singing or reciting poetry in public. This move is part of the regime's strict enforcement of Islamic law, which also includes urging women to "veil" their voices and bodies when outside the home. Additionally, some local radio and television stations have stopped airing female voices altogether.
In August 2021, the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, since then it has systematically reversed the progressive policies that had been put in place by the previous government, especially those aimed at improving the rights and freedoms of women.
These actions have led the United Nations to condemn the situation, describing it as "gender apartheid." The Taliban's restrictive policies have severely curtailed women's rights, including their ability to participate in public life, receive education, and work freely.
The Taliban's relentless imposition of morality laws mirrors their governance during the 1990s, a period marked by severe repression of women’s rights.
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