14 Arrested in Afghanistan for Playing Music, Singing

Taliban authorities in northern Afghanistan have arrested 14 individuals for playing music and singing, in a fresh crackdown on cultural expression under the group’s strict interpretation of Islamic law.

The arrests occurred in the northern province of Takhar, where, according to a statement released Saturday by regional police, the group had gathered at a private residence during the night to perform music and sing songs.

Authorities claimed the gathering caused public disturbance and said the individuals are now under investigation.

Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban has imposed sweeping restrictions on entertainment and the arts. Live musical performances have been banned in public places, as well as in private gatherings, restaurants, and even cars.

Music schools have been shut down, and musical instruments and sound systems have been destroyed or burned, citing the need to eliminate what the regime refers to as moral corruption.

Wedding halls are no longer permitted to play music, and many Afghan musicians have fled the country in fear of persecution or the loss of their livelihoods.

Those who remain have been encouraged by the Taliban government to perform nasheeds —religious chants performed without instruments—similar to policies enforced during the Taliban’s previous rule from 1996 to 2001.