A group of United Nations experts on Thursday condemned a crackdown by the Taliban morality police in the western Afghan city of Herat, saying at least two people were killed and more than 20 injured during recent protests against restrictions imposed on women.
Tensions have been rising in Herat after the Taliban’s Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice announced a ban on women and girls exposing their feet in public or wearing makeup. UN experts said dozens of women had been detained during the ensuing crackdown.
A protest against the restrictions on Tuesday was dispersed by force, and a boy was reportedly shot dead, according to the UN. Witnesses told AFP that security forces opened fire on demonstrators.
In a statement, 10 independent experts appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council said at least two people had been killed and more than 20 injured. Police have denied using any weapons.
“Allegations that women were detained for dress code violations are deeply concerning and may constitute arbitrary and unlawful detention, as it appears to penalise the exercise of their right to freedom of expression and right to be free from gender discrimination,” the experts said.
“Equality, peaceful assembly, freedom of expression and movement, and protection from arbitrary detention are fundamental rights,” the statement added.