RASC News Agency: Residents of Panjshir have accused the Taliban of widespread human rights abuses, including murder, theft, and arbitrary detention, over the past three years. According to locals, the Taliban have recently escalated their campaign of intimidation, torture, and arrests throughout the province. Ghaffar (a pseudonym), a resident of Panjshir, told RASC News: “Currently, over 20,000 heavily armed Taliban forces are stationed across Panjshir. Their presence has caused immense psychological and emotional distress to the local population.” He added: “These forces are devoid of education, ethics, and compassion. They frequently commit crimes and disrespect the local community. Without explicit written permission from their commanders, no one is allowed to venture into the mountains or even move beyond their villages.”
Another resident, Allah Dad, lamented: “We no longer have authority over even the smallest branches of our trees. Taliban soldiers break them, shake down unripe fruit, and consume it without our consent. They take whatever they want, leaving us with nothing.” He continued: “In this oppressive environment, even joyous celebrations and mourning gatherings are under constant Taliban surveillance. They raid our homes frequently, monitor our phones, and invade every aspect of our lives. Over the past three years, thousands of Panjshir residents have been imprisoned, tortured, executed, or martyred in the most horrific ways under fabricated accusations.”
Recent reports reveal that this month alone, the Taliban have detained over 15 residents from the districts of Darah, Rokha, and Shutul on baseless charges, allegedly as part of a broader campaign to suppress dissent. Last week, a resident of Peshghor village in Hesa Awal district, identified as Abdul Wadood, reportedly died from torture inflicted in a Taliban prison. Life under Taliban rule is described as “terrifying” by Panjshir residents, who claim they are subjected to systemic abuse, arbitrary detention, and torture due to ethnic and linguistic discrimination, as well as their identity as Panjshiris. The United Nations has previously documented and condemned Taliban atrocities in the region.
