PESHAWAR: A spokesperson for the Afghan Taliban, Sohail Shaheen, said that the Taliban will not force women to wear the shuttlecock burqa but they have to wear the hijab “for their own protection.”
In his latest interview Shaheen said, “hijab in nots uch shuttlecock burqa, there are different types of hijab that will ensure the security of women.” The spokesperson also rejected the news that the Taliban fighters are forcibly marrying underage girls and termed it a propaganda against Taliban.
Yesterday, few women activists also staged a protest in Kabul city. They were holding placards inscribed with slogans for equal opportunities and protection of women rights in Afghanistan. As the women were protesting for their political and basic rights, the Taliban fighters were providing them protection. The protest received widespread coverage on social media and the women were appreciated for the courage to stand for their rights. Taliban fighters were also present on the occasion who provided protection despite protests against them.
On the other hand, the Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told a press conference that they will allow women to work with the Taliban for the progress and development of the country. “We’ll allow women to join government, business and education sector to serve the country,” Mujahid assured the international community.
The Taliban leader said that they have announced general amnesty and no opponents will be targeted in the country. Mujahid assured that Afghan territory will not be used against anyone and the new political system of the country will be formed after the consultation within the group and other political leadership of the country.
Talking about the media freedom, the Taliban spokesperson said that the media was free is free but they should abide by rules and regulations. He said that all countries, including the United States, have been reassured that Afghanistan will not be used against anyone. However, the United States has said that they do not believe in the Taliban until they take practical steps to protect human rights, especial women rights, after capturing the country by force.