Taliban Morality Crackdown: Beards, Music, and Women's Dress Under Scrutiny

The Taliban's morality ministry has dismissed over 280 security force members for not growing beards and detained more than 13,000 people for 'immoral acts' in the past year. The ministry also destroyed over 21,000 musical instruments and restricted women's dress and travel, drawing criticism from human rights organisations and the UN.

The Taliban's morality ministry has dismissed more than 280 security personnel for failing to grow a beard and detained over 13,000 people for 'immoral acts' in the past year, officials announced on Tuesday. Around half of those detained were released within 24 hours.

Mohibullah Mokhlis, Director of Planning and Legislation at the ministry, revealed that officials had destroyed 21,328 musical instruments and prevented the sale of 'immoral and unethical' films in markets. The ministry also identified and dismissed 281 security force members for not adhering to the beard policy, based on their interpretation of Islamic law.

Critics, including the United Nations, have condemned the ministry for its restrictions on women and freedom of expression. Allegations of detentions for not meeting Islamic dress codes and restrictive travel policies for women have been denied by the Taliban. A new plan approved by the Supreme Leader seeks stricter enforcement of women's hijab guidelines, targeting male family members rather than the women themselves.

(With inputs from agencies.)