Taliban Begins Implementing Order No. 17 in Mazar-i-Sharif to Regulate Social Customs
The Taliban Administration in Balkh has announced the commencement of the dissemination and enforcement of Order No. 17 in Mazar-i-Sharif. The provisions of this order are being displayed on highways and public places. The order focuses on preventing “undesirable practices” at wedding ceremonies, funerals, memorial prayers, and upon returning from Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
According to the plan, the text of the order is being installed on banners and billboards in crowded urban areas and major routes. The General Directorate of the Taliban Administration Affairs is responsible for implementing this measure, which is also expected to extend to other provinces.
Aminullah Jilani, Deputy Press Officer of the Administration, stated that the purpose of issuing this order is to “reform social affairs and strengthen Islamic and moral values.” Relevant teams are raising awareness about the order’s content through wall writings, sign installations, and holding informational meetings for residents. He added that these activities are ongoing across different parts of Mazar-i-Sharif city and its districts.
Meanwhile, several Balkh residents have welcomed this move. However, the Taliban Administration has yet to clarify how it will monitor and ensure the enforcement of the order or address potential critics’ concerns. Similar restrictions and guidelines previously issued by the administration mostly focused on regulating citizens’ social behavior. Some experts have noted that such measures require broad consultation with various segments of society.
Order No. 17 primarily emphasizes preventing unnecessary expenditures and eliminating nonessential ceremonies related to marriage, weddings, funerals, and Hajj travel.
