Taliban authorities in Afghanistan’s eastern Nangarhar province seized and burned dozens of musical instruments in a public operation. Officials said the action targeted activities deemed “immoral” under Taliban rules. A total of 86 instruments were confiscated and set ablaze in Jalalabad, with a joint committee overseeing the process.
The Nangarhar governor’s office confirmed the operation was carried out by members of the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice. Officials stated that similar actions would continue to enforce the Taliban’s strict cultural policies. They emphasized that public music performances violate local laws and traditions under the regime.
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In a separate incident, Taliban authorities in the northeastern province of Takhar detained at least 25 people during a private event for playing music. Officials claimed the arrests were part of ongoing enforcement of the music ban. The detainees remain under investigation as authorities monitor private gatherings closely.
Since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban have imposed strict restrictions on music across Afghanistan. The bans cover public events, weddings, radio, television broadcasts, and many other public spaces. Authorities maintain these measures are necessary to ensure adherence to cultural and religious codes.
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Human rights observers have criticized the Taliban’s actions, stating that such measures suppress personal freedoms and artistic expression. Nevertheless, officials in Nangarhar vowed to continue monitoring, seizing, and destroying instruments linked to forbidden activities. The operations are part of a wider crackdown on cultural and recreational activities deemed inappropriate.