Taliban Enforces Traditional Dress Code, Raising Concerns Among Students and Employees

The Taliban government has issued a new directive mandating the wearing of a traditional shawl (lungi) for students and government employees, threatening dismissal from work or studies for non-compliance.

New Taliban Directive on Wearing Lungi

According to reports from government offices and higher education institutions, the Taliban has decided to enforce the wearing of a “lungi” for students and public service employees. Officials from the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice have informed employees and students that they must choose between wearing the lungi or resigning from their jobs or studies.

Restrictions on Entry Without Lungi

Local sources indicate that inspectors from the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue are stationed at the entrances of government offices and universities, preventing entry to anyone not wearing a lungi. This decision by the Taliban has raised concerns and dissatisfaction among the educated segment of the population.

Student Discontent Regarding Taliban Policies

A university student from Kabul, who wished to remain anonymous, told our reporter, “Instead of focusing on improving the education system, the Taliban has devoted all its attention to appearances and clothing. Inspectors have made it clear that we cannot enter the university without a lungi and must choose one of these two options.”

Economic Pressure on Employees

Meanwhile, many public service employees are dissatisfied with the enforcement of these strict laws. One employee stated, “In a situation where most employees struggle with low salaries and economic difficulties, the additional burden of purchasing and wearing a lungi is an insult and adds to our pressure.” He also warned that non-compliance with this directive could lead to dismissal.

Criticism of Taliban Policies

Social and legal experts have harshly criticized these policies, viewing them as a violation of fundamental rights and individual freedoms in the country. They believe that through the implementation of such regulations, the Taliban aims to homogenize society and erase distinct identities. This approach not only lacks religious justification but also deepens the rift between the people and the ruling administration.

Continued Restrictive Policies in Society

The enforcement of strict dress regulations occurs at a time when the Taliban has imposed several restrictive orders in recent years, severely impacting personal and social freedoms, especially those of women and youth, and driving the country towards greater isolation.