Taliban Begins Implementing Decree No. 17 in Mazar-i-Sharif to Curb ‘Unwanted Customs’
The Taliban Administration in Balkh Province has announced the commencement of publishing and enforcing Decree No. 17 of the organization’s leadership in the city of Mazar-i-Sharif. The provisions of this decree are being displayed on highways and public places. This decree focuses on preventing ‘unwanted customs’ at wedding gatherings, funeral and memorial ceremonies, as well as during returns from Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
According to the plan, the text of the decree is being installed on banners and billboards in crowded urban areas and main routes. The General Directorate of Taliban Affairs is responsible for implementing this measure, which is expected to expand to other provinces as well.
Aminullah Jelani, Deputy Press Officer of the Directorate, stated that the decree aims to ‘reform social affairs and strengthen Islamic and moral values.’ Relevant teams are promoting awareness by wall writings, installing signs, and holding informational meetings to explain the provisions to the residents. He mentioned that these activities are ongoing in various parts of Mazar-i-Sharif city and its surrounding districts.
Meanwhile, some residents of Balkh have welcomed this initiative. However, the Taliban administration has not yet provided details on how the decree will be monitored, enforced, or responded to potential criticism. Similar restrictions and guidelines had previously been issued by this administration, primarily focusing on regulating citizens’ social behaviors—a move that some experts believe requires broad consultation with different segments of society.
Decree No. 17 chiefly emphasizes preventing unnecessary expenditures and eliminating superfluous ceremonies in marriage, weddings, funerals, and pilgrimage travels.
