Taliban Minister Calls on Religious Scholars to Fully Cooperate with Moral Police in Balkh
Sheikh Mohammad Khalid Hanfi, the Taliban’s Minister for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice and Hearing Complaints, during his visit to Balkh province, called on esteemed religious scholars, tribal elders, and local authorities to provide “comprehensive cooperation” with the moral police in implementing the ministry’s programs. He described the strengthening of the Islamic system as the outcome of 20 years of jihad and sacrifices made by the mujahideen.
In a meeting with several scholars and local officials in Balkh, Hanfi stated that all religious scholars and tribal leaders are obligated to sincerely cooperate with the moral police to “establish virtuous deeds and prevent vices” and assist them in carrying out their responsibilities.
The Minister also regarded knowledge and its application as one of the greatest divine blessings, emphasizing that this enables guidance in this world and happiness in the hereafter. He added that within the Taliban administration’s structure, religious scholars hold a special status and respect.
In another part of his remarks, Hanfi alleged that over the past two decades, certain countries have pursued programs not only through physical presence but also intellectually and culturally to influence the Afghan public opinion. He also claimed that some “biased” countries and individuals are attempting to tarnish the reputation of the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice by paying money.
These statements come amid mounting internal and international criticism of the Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, which in recent months has imposed extensive restrictions on the social lives of citizens, especially women and youth. Critics argue that the enforcement methods employed by the moral police in some areas have raised concerns regarding fundamental citizens’ rights and individual freedoms.
