Afghan Taliban’s New Police Law: Complete Ban on Public Protests Imposed

Detention Period Extended to 10 Days; Police Given Powers to Threaten Suspects and Force Them to Repent

Kabul: Afghanistan’s Taliban regime has introduced a new police law, known as the Qanoon-e-Shurta, imposing a sweeping ban on public gatherings and peaceful protests across the country. The controversial legislation significantly expands the powers of police and security personnel, drawing serious concerns from human rights advocates over restrictions on civil liberties.

According to reports by Afghan media outlets Afghanistan International and Kabul Now, the Taliban Ministry of Justice has formally approved the legislation, which critics say further restricts the public’s ability to express dissent.

Controversial Provisions Expand Police Powers

The new law reportedly grants police and security personnel extensive powers, including:

• Ban on Protests — Article 50: Public demonstrations and protest gatherings are prohibited across Afghanistan.
• Extended Detention — Article 27: Police can reportedly detain suspects for up to 10 days without judicial proceedings, compared with the previous three-day limit.
• Harsh Interrogation Measures — Article 41: Officials are reportedly authorized to use harsh language and disciplinary measures during interrogations and compel suspects to repent.
• Threats of Death: Critics say the legislation permits police to threaten suspects with death in cases involving allegations of serious crimes.

Human Rights Concerns Over the New Law

Afghan political analyst Ahmad Ehsan Sarwaryar criticized the legislation, arguing that it provides legal cover for the use of state power against peaceful citizens and dissenting voices.

Human rights activist Ferozan Azmi also criticized the new regulations, saying the law further restricts fundamental rights and personal freedoms rather than addressing broader social concerns.

Critics maintain that the Taliban regime is increasingly relying on restrictive measures to strengthen its control over society and suppress dissent.

Key Points

• Protests banned: Article 50 reportedly prohibits public demonstrations and peaceful rallies nationwide.
• 10-day detention: The maximum detention period for suspects has reportedly increased from three to 10 days.
• Expanded interrogation powers: Police have reportedly been granted authority to use harsh language, compel repentance and threaten suspects.
• Human rights concerns: Local and international observers have raised serious concerns about the impact of the law on civil liberties and fundamental rights.