Residents of Waygal, Nuristan Complain of Forced Confiscation and Burning of Traditional Carriers by Taliban Security Forces
Residents of the Waygal district in Nuristan province report that security forces affiliated with the Taliban administration are forcibly collecting and burning their traditional carriers, known locally as “kajawa.” According to locals, these carriers are an essential part of daily life in the mountainous areas of the province.
Locals say that the security forces are not only destroying these traditional tools but, in some cases, are entering homes and confiscating kajawas from women. The residents regard this as a disrespect to their privacy and family dignity. They emphasize that the kajawa is a practical necessity for transporting goods and traveling along the difficult mountain paths, not merely a decorative item.
At the same time, residents of Waygal expressed concerns about border insecurity, stating that cross-border attacks have injured several people. However, effective measures to prevent such incidents have yet to be implemented. They question why the focus is on confiscating traditional tools rather than providing security for the area.
Nuristan is a province known for its unique and ancient culture and traditions, with the kajawa representing a significant part of its cultural heritage. Cultural activists warn that harsh measures against local customs could widen the gap between the people and the Taliban administration, increasing social and regional tensions.
