Date: 24/02/1444
Document number: 483

To the esteemed heads of the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice and Complaints in 34 provinces,

Peace be upon you, and the mercy and blessings of Allah;

Subject: Prohibition of poets from singing poems similar to music and songs.

In accordance with paragraph 5 of Resolution No. 6 dated 1444/3/9 Hijri (corresponding to 1401/6/15 - Jan/16.2023 ), as decided in the weekly administrative meeting of the ministry, the following decision has been made:

"The prohibition of poets from singing poems similar to music and songs."

The above matter has been communicated to you for your information, so that necessary actions can be taken to implement the aforementioned decision. Please disseminate the aforementioned decision to all provincial heads.

With regards,

Mawlawi Muhammad Ishaq Hakim
General Director of Chief of Staff

The Taliban’s ban on singing poems in musical form is a serious violation of international human rights obligations, especially regarding freedom of expression and cultural rights. It reflects a broader pattern of ideological repression aimed at silencing artistic and Cultural Rights in Afghanistan. Such measures not only stifle creativity but also erase vital forms of Afghan identity and resistance rooted in poetry and performance.