The Taliban reportedly plans to use security forces to prevent women from visiting Band-e-Amir, one of Afghanistan’s most beloved national parks. The Vice and Virtue Ministry spokesperson claimed that women have been disregarding proper hijab attire when visiting the central Bamiyan province. Last week, Minister Mohammad Khalid Hanafi communicated his concerns about women’s adherence to hijab protocols during a visit to the province, instructing security personnel to restrict women’s access to the tourism site. The Minister’s speech, recorded in Bamiyan, has been circulated on social media. The Human Rights Watch denounced the Taliban’s decision, expressing concern over the increasing limitations imposed on Afghan women.

This is not the first instance of the Taliban imposing restrictions on women’s rights. In November of last year, the Taliban-led government banned women from using public spaces, including parks, on the basis of improper hijab usage and non-compliance with gender segregation rules. Since coming into power on August 15, 2021, following the withdrawal of US and NATO forces, the Taliban has implemented numerous regulations specifically targeting Afghan women and girls. These measures include barring girls from attending school beyond the sixth grade, preventing Afghan women from pursuing jobs within local and non-governmental organizations, and cracking down on media. These harsh policies have sparked international outrage, with condemnation coming even from Muslim-majority nations.

Band-e-Amir, located in Bamiyan, is a prominent tourist destination. It gained national park status in 2009 and attracts thousands of visitors annually. The park plays a vital role in the local economy, providing income to businesses such as sightseeing tours, restaurants, hotels, and handicraft stores. This new restriction will likely have a significant impact on the community, further exacerbating the challenges faced by locals due to the Taliban’s stringent policies.