Taliban Arrests 14 For Playing Music And Singing

Taliban authorities have detained fourteen individuals in northern Afghanistan for engaging in the prohibited acts of playing musical instruments and singing, activities that have faced severe restrictions since the group reclaimed power in 2021.

A statement issued by provincial police on Saturday, May 10, detailed that the arrests occurred on Thursday night in the capital of northern Takhar province, where the group had assembled in a private residence.

According to the statement, the individuals exploited the cover of nighttime to hold the gathering, during which they played instruments and sang songs, reportedly disturbing the public. The detainees are currently being investigated.

Since reassuming control of Afghanistan, the Taliban government has progressively enforced laws and policies consistent with their rigid interpretation of Islamic law. One of the most notable measures is a sweeping ban on nearly all forms of music. This encompasses live performances, playing recorded music at social gatherings, in public spaces like restaurants, in vehicles, and across broadcast media.

Following their return to power, Taliban officials closed music schools and destroyed musical instruments and sound systems, labeling music as a cause of moral decay and public disruption. Wedding venues are now barred from playing music, though in some instances, women in segregated sections of such events continue the practice covertly.

Many Afghan musicians have left the country, driven by fear and the collapse of their livelihood in a nation already among the world’s poorest. The Taliban has encouraged remaining artists to channel their talents into Islamic poetry and unaccompanied vocal chants, which are among the few forms of musical expression permitted under their rule, mirroring their policies during their prior regime from 1996 to 2001.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli