Taliban Imposes New Restrictions on Muharram Mourning Ceremonies in Afghanistan

Taliban Imposes New Restrictions on Muharram Mourning Ceremonies in Afghanistan
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The Supreme Council for the Regulation of Religious Affairs in Afghanistan, established in coordination with the Taliban, has issued a set of new restrictions on holding mourning ceremonies during the holy month of Muharram, as part of measures adopted to regulate religious rituals during this occasion.

According to local media reports, the restrictions include banning the installation of mourning flags or the setting up of water stations in areas where mourning ceremonies are not traditionally held, while emphasizing the need to adhere to designated locations for religious gatherings.

The measures also include a ban on filming or recording mourning ceremonies. Authorities said the step is intended to preserve the privacy of religious gatherings and rituals, and to create an appropriate atmosphere for holding mourning ceremonies in accordance with the specified regulations.

These measures come as the holy month of Muharram begins and Muslims, particularly followers of Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them), prepare to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), his family, and his companions in the eternal tragedy of Karbala.

In previous years, the Taliban imposed similar restrictions on Ashura and Muharram ceremonies, including controls on the locations of religious gatherings and some public displays associated with commemorating the occasion, as part of its policy for managing religious assemblies in the country.