KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – The Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice in Ghazni has announced that its officers monitored the recreational activities and outings of young people in Andar district of the province and confiscated some entertainment items and music-playing devices.
In a statement published today (Sunday, May 31), the ministry said that from young people who were enjoying themselves in the public park of Andar district, 14 tambourines, eight music-playing devices (MP3 players), and 15 Ludo game boards were confiscated.
The Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice in Ghazni did not specify whether anyone had been arrested in connection with the incident.
Since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban have imposed severe restrictions on musicians and artists. The group has confiscated and destroyed instruments across the country, barred music from television and radio broadcasts, and raided gatherings where music was played.
In a similar incident reported last month, Taliban authorities in Khost province announced that they had burned 829 musical instruments and images of living beings that had been confiscated during inspections by the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice.
Officials said the action was taken to strengthen Islamic values and prevent what they described as moral corruption, indicating that such operations would continue in different parts of the country.
During their previous rule from 1996 to 2001, the Taliban also banned music, television, films, and most forms of entertainment. Afghanistan remains the only country where music is officially prohibited nationwide.
The restrictions imposed on music and recreational activities are part of a broader set of policies introduced by the Taliban since returning to power. These measures have drawn criticism from many Afghans and rights advocates, who argue that limitations on cultural expression and public entertainment further restrict social freedoms, particularly for young people.
Music has long been an important part of Afghan culture, serving as a source of artistic expression, social connection, entertainment, and emotional well-being. It plays a significant role in celebrations, cultural traditions, storytelling, and the preservation of Afghanistan’s diverse heritage.
Many psychologists and health experts also recognize music as a tool that can reduce stress, improve mental health, and foster a sense of community. The Taliban, however, have banned most forms of music based on their interpretation of Islamic law, arguing that music can distract people from religious obligations and contribute to what they consider immoral behavior.
Critics of the ban contend that the restrictions undermine cultural freedoms, limit artistic expression, and deprive many Afghans—especially young people—of an important means of recreation, creativity, and cultural identity.
