Taliban's Window Ban: Shocking New Rule Targets Women
In a controversial move, the Taliban’s supreme leader has ordered a ban on constructing windows that overlook spaces frequently used by Afghan women. The decree, aimed at preventing what the administration calls “obscene acts,” mandates strict oversight by municipal authorities to ensure compliance.
New Rule Targets Residential Buildings
Under the new directive, buildings must avoid having windows that provide a view into areas such as courtyards, kitchens, or wells. These spaces are traditionally used by women in Afghan households. The Taliban government stated that “seeing women working in kitchens, courtyards, or fetching water could lead to immoral behaviour.”
Existing windows that offer such views must be blocked, either by constructing a wall or otherwise obstructing the line of sight.
Authorities to Enforce Compliance
Municipal authorities and relevant departments have been instructed to monitor construction projects and inspect existing buildings to ensure adherence to the new rule. Property owners are expected to make adjustments if their buildings violate the guidelines.
The Taliban has emphasized that this step is necessary to “protect women’s modesty” as part of their strict interpretation of Islamic principles.
Global Criticism and Concerns
The international community has condemned these actions, with the United Nations labelling the policies as “gender apartheid.” Critics argue that these restrictions severely limit women’s basic rights and freedom, pushing them further into isolation.
Despite the Taliban’s assertion that Islamic law guarantees equal rights for men and women, their interpretation has led to widespread concern about the treatment of women under their regime.
Widening Restrictions on Women
This construction ban is the latest in a series of measures targeting women’s visibility and participation in public life. Since reclaiming power in August 2021, the Taliban has imposed numerous restrictions, including:
- Banning education for girls beyond primary school.
- Blocking women’s access to public spaces such as parks.
- Prohibiting women from working in many sectors.
- Outlawing women’s voices in public performances, including singing or reciting poetry.
Additionally, local media outlets have been encouraged to avoid broadcasting female voices altogether.
Impact on Afghan Society
The ban on windows overlooking women’s areas reflects the Taliban’s continuing effort to control women’s presence in both private and public life. While the administration justifies these actions as upholding morality and modesty, many see them as a systematic erasure of women from society.
As the Taliban enforces this latest measure, Afghan women face an increasingly restricted existence, raising questions about the future of gender equality and human rights in the country.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
