RASC News Agency: The Taliban’s Ashura Ceremony Committee for the year 1403 has banned Muharram mourners from parading in the streets of Jebrael in Herat and its surrounding areas. The Taliban have stated that public mourning is not permissible as it disrupts public order.
In a document released to the media on Tuesday, July 9, the Taliban instructed Muharram mourners to refrain from installing flags, painting, or writing religious slogans on vehicles and to avoid lingering in the streets after leaving mosques. The document further advised mourners not to obstruct roads or install flags and banners depicting living beings.
Additionally, the document stated: “Avoid actions such as self-flagellation, bare-chested chest beating, covering oneself in mud, and other practices that demean the religion.” Meanwhile, the Taliban have also urged the public to cooperate with their forces to ensure security.
Earlier this week, the Taliban tore down flags set up by Ashura mourners in parts of Jebrael, Herat. Three days ago, the Taliban in Ghazni province also asked Muharram mourners to refrain from installing flags in the city. It is noteworthy that the Taliban have issues with Shia religious ceremonies, claiming such practices have no place in Islam.
Last year, the Taliban also clashed with Ashura mourners, tearing down their flags in many areas. The Taliban’s strict and incorrect interpretation of religion leads them to have problems with other sects, considering all other sects incorrect. They have repeatedly obstructed the observance of some Shia religious ceremonies.
