Afghanistan’s ruling Taliban government has introduced a new criminal code that has sparked serious concern over women’s rights. According to a report by The Independent, the newly enacted law effectively permits husbands to physically punish their wives and children, drawing widespread criticism from human rights observers.
The report states that under the new provisions, a husband may face up to 15 days in prison if he uses “excessive force” resulting in visible injuries or broken bones. However, punishment would only be enforced if the wife successfully proves the abuse in court.
The 90-page penal code was reportedly signed by the Taliban’s supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada. The document, written in Pashto and titled “Da Mahakumu Jazai Usulnama” (Rules of Criminal Procedure for the Courts), has been distributed to courts across Afghanistan. The Independent claims to have reviewed a copy of the code.
Under the new rules, an abused woman must appear in court fully covered in hijab to present evidence of her injuries. In addition, she must be accompanied by her husband or an adult male guardian during court proceedings.
The law also reportedly includes provisions restricting women’s freedom of movement. A married woman who visits relatives without her husband’s permission could face punishment of up to three months in prison.
Furthermore, the penal code is said to divide Afghan society into four categories: religious scholars (ulama), elites (ashraf), middle class, and lower class. Critics argue that penalties for similar crimes may vary depending on the accused person’s social status rather than solely on the nature or severity of the offense.
International human rights organizations have expressed growing alarm over the continued erosion of women’s rights in Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power. Observers warn that the new legal framework could further restrict women’s access to justice and deepen systemic inequality in the country.
