Taliban Government Imposes Tax on Shia Religious Schools in Afghanistan for the First Time
Taliban Government Imposes Tax on Shia Religious Schools in Afghanistan for the First Time
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Sources in Kabul indicate that the Taliban government has recently begun collecting taxes from Shia religious schools (seminaries) in Afghanistan for the first time, a move that has escalated concerns within the Shia community regarding discrimination and restrictions.
According to an informed, anonymous source speaking to the AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA), this marks the first instance in recent Afghan history where mosques, religious schools, and cultural centers have been subjected to taxation, as they were previously exempt.
Shia religious scholars have voiced their objections, but their concerns have reportedly gone unaddressed by officials. The source also pointed to other issues, including the Taliban government preventing private home construction and failing to properly utilize Shia youth capacity within government departments.
Beyond the new tax, the source noted that unrest and attacks by nomadic groups (Kuchis) are continuing in central regions, with complaints from victims remaining unaddressed. This lack of control over these groups has created security and social challenges for local residents.
However, the source acknowledged that the Taliban government has shown success in some urban development projects, implementing programs to manage traffic and control population that have been welcomed by some segments of society.
As reported by Al Jazeera, the Taliban’s decision to tax Shia seminaries has raised serious concerns about religious discrimination and the limiting of minority rights in Afghanistan. Experts warn that the continuation of this policy could lead to increased social dissatisfaction and heightened tensions between different ethnic and religious groups.
