Strict regulations

The Taliban's regressive approach to discipline the society with a baton is problematic

The Taliban leadership has once again come up with a strict code of conduct on women’s attire and virtue protocols.

Mullah Akhunzada, the supreme leader, has issued a decree that it is mandatory for women to wear the traditional burqa, and that they must be accompanied by a male relative while traveling. This is in line with the strict regulations that Taliban want to enforce in addition to an already existing blanket ban on telecasting dramas and other musical operas on national television. Though it is no surprise that the conventional society wants to retain the hijab code, what makes it worrisome is the exigency with which the order is being implemented. It is bound to create unrest in a society that was settling after decades of war, and that too with a hope that the Taliban 2.0 will be different from the harsh module of yesteryears.

This regressive approach to discipline the society with a baton is problematic. This will surely invite ire from the Western governments, who are already full of concerns when it comes to dealing with the religious-right in Afghanistan and elsewhere. But what is questionable is why Taliban decided to go so vocal on this policy. Afghans are a decent nation and adhere to values and virtues, and hijab is there basic tenant. But by forcefully promulgating the same is tantamount to inviting trouble. The Taliban had made a good start by allowing girls to return to school, and providing equal opportunity for employment in government. Plus their newfound love for cultural promotion and tolerance while dealing with different sects of Islam and lingual communities was extremely appreciated. This U-turn of moral enforcement has pushed them back a few steps and in unnecessary bad light.

Taliban have to look at the bigger picture. Their de jure recognition is still a far cry, and they are on the watch-list. Likewise, the government is struggling with economic constraints and deepening humanitarian woes. This elicits a progressive approach in governance to seek foreign aid and acknowledgment in an era of increasing security concerns. The Taliban would be better advised to lower the guard and compassionately deal with a vibrant and multi-dynamic society. Undue clamps and restrictions are often counter-productive.