KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – An activist has been expelled from Kabul University and detained for over 40 days by the Taliban after taking part in a protest calling for women’s rights and an end to the persecution of the Hazara community.
Izatullah Rahimi, originally from Daykundi province, was arrested in December in Kabul’s Dasht-e-Barchi neighborhood alongside fellow activist Najib Watanyar. Taliban intelligence agents detained them for joining a street demonstration demanding an end to restrictions on women and girls and the persecution of Hazaras.
After more than 40 days in custody, Rahimi was recently released, while Watanyar remains detained. Speaking to KabulNow, Rahimi said he was subjected to harsh treatment in prison, and Taliban authorities confiscated his laptop, ID cards, and other personal belongings.
Upon his release, Rahimi attempted to resume his studies at Kabul University, where he was in his first year at the Faculty of Economy. However, faculty officials informed him that he had been expelled and was no longer permitted to attend classes.
Despite his release, Rahimi said he continued to receive multiple summons from the Taliban, raising concerns for his safety and that of his family. Fearing further reprisals, he fled Afghanistan and is now residing in a neighboring country.
Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban has detained, tortured, and, in some cases, killed dozens of activists, human rights defenders, and journalists. Many have been targeted for protesting against its policies, with some accused of spying for foreign countries or collaborating with armed resistance groups.
