Taliban Publicly Whip 17 Individuals in Eastern Afghanistan Amid Rise in Corporal Punishment

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – The Taliban’s Supreme Court has announced that 17 individuals were publicly flogged in Khost province for charges including “illicit relationships,” “sodomy,” and “theft.” This punishment was carried out on Wednesday, October 23, following a ruling from the provincial court.

The court’s statement said that five individuals were given 39 lashes each, while three received 25 and 30 lashes, and nine others faced 30 and 39 lashes. In addition to the lashes, various prison sentences were imposed, including one individual receiving one year and eight months, three others sentenced to six months, one to ten months, nine to one year, and one to one year and five months.

These incidents are part of a broader pattern in corporal punishment, as the Taliban have intensified such measures across several provinces. This surge follows directives from the Taliban’s supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada urging local officials to enforce “hudud” — punishments rooted in Islamic law.

Since regaining power, the Taliban have escalated these actions, targeting hundreds, including women and LGBTQ+ individuals. A recent report by the UN Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) documented 179 instances of corporal punishment within a three-month period, which included the flogging of 28 women and four children. Public executions have also been carried out, with at least five people convicted of murder executed in front of large crowds.

Human rights organizations have condemned these practices as violations of international law and human dignity, highlighting the absence of fair legal processes. Accused individuals often lack access to legal defense, raising serious concerns about justice.

Despite mounting international criticism, the Taliban remain unmoved, insisting on the strict enforcement of Sharia law throughout Afghanistan.