Shocking New Taliban Law: Domestic Violence Allowed In Afghanistan If No “Broken Bones”
The Taliban government in Afghanistan has introduced a new criminal code that has raised serious concerns among human rights groups.
The new 90-page law, signed by Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, allows husbands to physically punish their wives and children as long as it does not cause “broken bones or open wounds.”
According to reports, the law says punishment will only apply in cases of what it calls “obscene force,” such as visible fractures or serious injuries.
Even then, the maximum penalty is up to 15 days in prison. Rights groups say this makes it extremely difficult for women to get justice.
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Under the new rules, a woman must prove abuse in court by showing her injuries to a judge. However, women are required to appear in court with a male guardian, even if the complaint is against their husband or partner. This condition makes the legal process nearly impossible for many victims.
The law also does not clearly ban psychological or sexual violence. Campaigners say this leaves major gaps in protection for women and children.
In addition, married women can face up to three months in jail if they visit relatives without their husband’s permission — even if they are trying to escape violence at home.
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The new code removes earlier protections, such as the Elimination of Violence Against Women (EVAW) law that was introduced in 2009. Human rights groups warn that the latest changes further limit women’s rights in Afghanistan.
Since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, women and girls have faced strict restrictions on education, work, healthcare, and freedom of movement. Many global organisations have expressed concern that these new legal changes will make life even harder for Afghan women.