RASC News Agency: Local sources in Mazar-i-Sharif, the capital of Balkh province, report that the Taliban abruptly disrupted a major recreational event shortly after it began, citing “applause” as the cause. The event, organized by a telecommunications company, took place on Thursday evening, October 10, at the “Sina” stadium in southern Mazar-i-Sharif.
According to sources, the Taliban intervened due to the audience clapping and whistling, actions deemed inappropriate under their strict interpretation of Islamic law. This marks the first instance of the Taliban interrupting a public recreational and entertainment event since their return to power in Afghanistan. Notably, several renowned Afghanistani comedians had been invited to perform at the gathering.
Despite prior coordination between the event organizers and local Taliban officials in Mazar-i-Sharif, the event was forcefully shut down only minutes after it began, with the Taliban dispersing the attendees. The Taliban authorities in Mazar-i-Sharif have yet to issue an official statement on the matter. Under their interpretation of Sharia law, clapping and whistling are considered “forbidden” (Haram). Following the event’s disruption, officials from the Taliban’s Departments of Information and Culture, as well as Intelligence, instructed journalists to refrain from reporting on the cancellation.
Since regaining control, the Taliban have imposed a series of stringent restrictions on Afghanistani citizens, aiming to transform Afghanistan into a metaphorical graveyard one where the dead are only permitted to pray and weep. In this graveyard, all expressions of hope and joy are condemned as forbidden.
