201 Prisoners Released from Kandahar’s Sarpuza Jail Ahead of Eid al-Fitr

Authorities at the central Sarpuza prison in Kandahar province have announced the release of 201 inmates ahead of Eid al-Fitr, along with a reduction in the sentences of 393 other prisoners.

A statement issued by the prison indicated that this action was taken as part of decisions related to the upcoming holiday. No details have been provided regarding the types of crimes, the criteria for selecting prisoners, or the review process of their cases.

Previously, in several other provinces across the country, dozens of inmates were released ahead of Eid al-Fitr based on orders from the Supreme Court administered by the Taliban.

The release of prisoners on religious occasions has a precedent in Afghanistan, but human rights organizations consistently emphasize the need for transparency in case reviews and respect for prisoners’ rights. This issue is considered to require greater clarity and accountability under the current Taliban administration.