RASC News Agency: Local sources report that the Taliban have continued their constraints on Muharram ceremonies in Kabul. According to sources, the Taliban have demolished several votive distribution centers or “sabeels” on Ali Mazari Road in Kabul in recent days. Sources indicate that restrictions have been imposed on many sabeels, with some being consolidated.
Sources further reveal that the Taliban have prohibited caravans of individuals from participating in Muharram ceremonies. According to these sources, in previous years, one to two thousand families would hold mourning ceremonies at a Hussainiya, but this year the Taliban have designated Hussainiyas; meaning, people must conduct ceremonies in four to five Hussainiyas.
Sources also state that the Taliban have denied Sunnis attendance at Shiite religious ceremonies and have banned loudspeakers in Hussainiyas. Meanwhile, a document disclosed to the media illustrates the Taliban’s unprecedented restrictions on the ten-day Ashura and the month of Muharram.
According to this document, the Taliban have secured commitments from certain Shiite scholars to accept Taliban restrictions during the decade of Ashura and the month of Muharram. The document specifies that Afghanistani Shiite citizens are prohibited from inviting Sunni citizens to mourning ceremonies.
This document underscores the unparalleled nature of these restrictions. Furthermore, the document indicates that the Taliban have confined Muharram mourning ceremonies to only three days, from the seventh to the tenth of Muharram, which must be conducted behind closed doors. Additionally, the Taliban have restricted the presence of Shia groups in mourning ceremonies and their participation in media programs.
