Taliban burn down music hall and destroy musical instruments in Zabul

The Taliban have burned down a music hall and destroyed approximately 100 musical instruments in Zabul province as part of their ongoing crackdown on music and other forms of entertainment deemed un-Islamic. In a press release issued by the Taliban's Department for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice on Monday, September 16, the group stated that listening to music is illegal and encourages immoral behavior, justifying their actions.

The Taliban authorities in Kalat, the capital of Zabul province, confiscated musical instruments from various locations before setting them on fire. The statement further warned residents to refrain from listening to music, threatening legal consequences for any violations of this order.

This latest incident is part of a broader campaign by the Taliban to eliminate music across Afghanistan. Similar actions have been reported in Kabul, Sarpul, Helmand, and several other provinces. Since reclaiming power in 2021, the Taliban have strictly enforced their interpretation of Sharia law, which includes a ban on music, dancing, and other forms of public entertainment.

In addition to the destruction of musical instruments, the Taliban's new "Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice" law imposes strict restrictions, particularly targeting women. Under the law, women are prohibited from playing or listening to music, further limiting their freedom in a country where women's rights have already been severely restricted since the Taliban's return to power.

The international community and human rights organizations have condemned the Taliban's cultural crackdown, describing it as an assault on freedom of expression and artistic creativity. Despite these criticisms, the Taliban continue to enforce strict moral codes in line with their interpretation of Islamic values.