Afghanistan’s Taliban regime has formalised a new penal code that “legalises” domestic violence against women. The new laws passed in the country have garnered massive backlash from across the world. Recently, Bhasker, who is quite vocal on social issues, slammed the new law. She called it absolutely despicable to formalise such a law. Actor Gauahar Khan also condemned the act.
Swara Bhasker calls out new Taliban law
Sharing media reports about the newly introduced law on February 20, Swara Bhasker expressed her anger. She wrote, “Unfucking-believable!!!!! Honestly, among the worst specimens of the human race — relentlessly cruel and brutal — absolute monsters, the Taliban. An insult to humanity and to the religion they claim to represent. Absolutely despicable.”
Actor and host Gauahar Khan also responded to the reports, writing, “Disgusting.” Actor Nandish Sandhu questioned the rationale behind the law, stating, “What sense does this make?”
Details about new Taliban law
The backlash follows the Taliban’s formal adoption of a 90-page penal code, signed by its supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada. According to multiple reports, the document largely permits domestic violence by a husband under certain conditions. A husband may beat his wife, but punishment applies only if the assault is carried out with a stick and causes severe injury, with the burden of proof falling on the woman.
The code permits husbands to physically discipline their wives and children, provided the punishment does not result in broken bones or open wounds. Human rights advocates argue that such language effectively legalises domestic violence.
The penal code does not explicitly criminalise psychological or sexual violence. The maximum penalty for the husband is 15 days’ imprisonment. Additionally, a woman who leaves her husband’s home without permission can face up to three months in jail. Further provisions state that women must appear in court fully covered and accompanied by a husband or male guardian, including in cases where the husband himself is the accused.
On the professional front, Swara was recently seen on the sets of a celebrity laughter show alongside Fahad. She is known for her performances in films such as Tanu Weds Manu, Raanjhanaa, Nil Battey Sannata, and Veere Di Wedding. Fahad Ahmad, on the other hand, is known to be a political activist and youth leader. He has been actively involved in public affairs and student politics.
