Taliban burns copies of Mafatih al-Jinan, burial shrouds of Afghan pilgrims returning from Holy Karbala

In an act that has sparked widespread outrage and deeply hurt the sentiments of many Muslims, the Taliban burned Mafatih al-Jinan books (books of prayers), and burial shrouds belonging to Afghan pilgrims returning from Holy Karbala at the Islam Qala border in Herat Province.

These items are considered sacred mementos or gifts that pilgrims bring back from Holy Karbala, symbolizing spiritual connection and blessings in their lives.

According to a source who spoke with Shia Waves Agency, the Taliban recently confiscated these religious books and shrouds from pilgrims at the border and burned them in front of their eyes. The items included the renowned Mafatih al-Jinan books and other prayer books, which hold significant religious and cultural value for Shia Muslims, as well as the shrouds that pilgrims bring back from Holy Karbala to be used during religious events and even for their burial.

This act has provoked angry reactions, with many pilgrims and their families expressing shock and dismay at this blatant violation of their religious feelings. They see the burning of these materials as a direct insult to their values and sacred beliefs, and some have described it as an infringement on their religious and personal rights.

In response to this incident, several religious leaders and public figures have called on religious and international bodies to intervene and protect the rights of Afghan minorities, urging Taliban to respect the diverse religious beliefs of the people and to refrain from repeating actions that harm religious sentiments and escalate tensions.

This incident highlights ongoing tensions between the Taliban and certain segments of Afghan society, particularly regarding the freedom to practice religious rituals, raising concerns about the future of religious coexistence in the country.