Taliban in northern Afghanistan have detained 14 individuals for playing musical instruments and singing during a private gathering, sparking concerns over the group’s strict interpretation of Islamic law.
The arrests were made in the capital of Takhar province on Thursday night.
The provincial police stated that the individuals “took advantage of the nighttime to gather in a residential house where they were playing musical instruments and singing songs, which caused disturbance to the public.” The detainees remain under investigation.
Since regaining control of Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban have imposed severe limitations on music and public entertainment. Music schools have been closed, instruments destroyed, and public performances outlawed.
Authorities describe music as a source of “moral corruption” and urge former musicians to redirect their talents toward religious chanting and Islamic poetry.
Despite these restrictions, music continues to be performed discreetly in some women-only spaces.
Many musicians have fled the country, seeking refuge and employment abroad after losing their livelihoods.
