KABUL- International rights monitors have strongly criticized the recent decision by the Taliban government to prohibit women from visiting the renowned Band-i-Amir national park, situated in Afghanistan’s Bamyan province. This move is the latest in a series of restrictions that have marginalized women from various aspects of public life under the rule of the Taliban government.
Over the weekend, the Taliban’s morality ministry declared the closure of Band-i-Amir national park to female visitors, citing alleged non-compliance with Islamic dress codes as the primary reason. The park, located approximately 175 kilometers (110 miles) west of Kabul, boasts stunning blue lakes bordered by sweeping cliffs and has become a popular destination for domestic tourism.
The decision has been met with strong condemnation from international organizations advocating for women’s rights. Heather Barr, Associate Women’s Rights Director at Human Rights Watch, expressed her outrage, describing the ban as “cruel in a very intentional way.” Barr further commented that the Taliban’s actions reflect a broader pattern of restricting women’s access to education, employment, movement, and now even recreational spaces.
Barr stated, “Step-by-step the walls are closing in on women as every home becomes a prison.”
The Minister for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, Mohammad Khalid Hanafi, defended the ban, asserting that it was necessary to enforce proper Islamic dress codes. During a visit to Bamyan province, Hanafi stated, “We must take action from today. We must prevent the non-observance of hijab.”
Band-i-Amir national park has been a popular site for Afghans seeking relaxation and leisure activities, including picnicking by the lakeside and enjoying boat rides on its waters. The ban imposed by the Taliban government has not only curtailed women’s freedom but has also drawn attention to the growing restrictions being placed on various facets of Afghan society.
The prohibition on women visiting the national park is the latest illustration of the challenges Afghan women are facing under the new regime, sparking concerns about the erosion of hard-won rights and freedom
With contributions from AFP
