Afghanistan: Taliban Continues Public Whippings, Including Women, Sparking Outcry

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan has been enforcing Sharia law since its takeover of Kabul. The practice of public flogging continues despite condemnation from international bodies. In the last month, the Taliban whipped 114 individuals in public, including 20 women, across at least 15 provinces. Most of the women were accused of running away from home or moral corruption. The punishments were most prevalent in Kabul, Parwan, and Takhar. The number of cases in Sunbula has risen dramatically, where 50 individuals were whipped this month compared to 10 the previous month. The UN and human rights groups have expressed concerns regarding these actions.