Name: Nafisa
My name is Nafisa, and I am from Kapisa province. During the republic, I was a teacher. After the Taliban came to power, I began working on human rights and women’s rights activities. From the streets of Kabul to the frontlines of the struggle against the terrorist group Taliban, I have been present. Despite facing security threats, and even fracturing a bone in my hand while escaping from Taliban intelligence forces, I have never laid down the flag of resistance.
Regarding the restrictions on women in Kapisa province, I must say that women in Kapisa, like other women in Afghanistan, are deprived of their fundamental rights. The restrictions are increasing day by day. Girls and women in Kapisa cannot leave their homes without a male guardian. The doors of schools and universities are closed to them. Even if a woman is dying from pain, she cannot go to the hospital without a male guardian (mahram).
Although some women tried to raise their voices and protested, once their activities were broadcast, their families faced security threats and were pursued. Their husbands and brothers were threatened by the Taliban. What is particularly concerning in Kapisa is that the Taliban have ordered girls to marry mullahs and soldiers of the Emirate. Girls are not allowed to choose their husbands, and as a result, the number of public trials and lashings has increased in Kapisa.
Some time ago, a boy and a girl who decided to marry and live together were arrested by the Taliban and publicly flogged without any proof of a crime.
In any legal system, the crime of the accused must first be proven before they are punished. Publicly flogging a woman damages her dignity and humanity, and it undermines the principles of human rights. I hope that, first, the people of Afghanistan defend their basic human rights and do not allow the Taliban to insult their dignity and honor. Second, I urge human rights institutions, international organizations, and courts to stand by Afghan women to preserve their rights and uphold justice.
With respect,
Nafisa
