Shia Hazaras face restrictions in Afghanistan

Sakhi Shrine in Afghanistan is an extremely important monument for the Shia Hazaras residing in the country.

Today, Taliban forced people out of the shrine and closed its door, many fearing the doors are closed forever under Taliban’s government.

Taliban believe that kissing the flag of the shrine is polytheism which under their extremist belief is completely forbidden. Hazaras have been systematically targeted for decades in Afghanistan due to their religious, Shia identity and their ethnic identity.

In various ways they have been stopped, searched, beaten and many cases killed because they are Shia.

During Muharram last year, there were reports of banners of Imam Hussain (peace and blessings be uponHim) destroyed, Husseiniyas forced to close and mourners harassed by the government.