Javed Akhtar Voices Outrage Over Taliban's Reported Legalization of Domestic Violence
Award-winning lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has issued a strong condemnation following reports that the Taliban has formalized domestic violence under specific conditions within Afghanistan's new penal code. The development, which has drawn global criticism, prompted Akhtar to express his profound concern and outrage through a social media post on February 21.
Akhtar's Strongly Worded Statement on Social Media
In a post on platform X, Akhtar wrote with evident distress, "Talibans have legalised wife beating but without any bone fracture. If a wife goes to her parent place without the husband's permission, she will be jailed for three months. I beseech the Mufties and mullas of India to condemn it unconditionally because it all is being done in the name of their religion."
His statement quickly ignited widespread debate across social media platforms, with numerous users echoing his deep concerns regarding the erosion of women's rights and legal protections in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.
Details of the Reported Taliban Penal Code Provisions
According to international media reports, including coverage by The Independent, the Taliban's newly implemented criminal code spans approximately 90 pages and has allegedly been signed by Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. The code reportedly includes several controversial provisions that severely restrict women's autonomy.
The penal code is said to permit a husband to physically discipline his wife under certain circumstances, with punishment only applying if the assault involves a stick and results in severe injury. Critically, the burden of proof in such cases reportedly rests entirely with the woman, creating significant barriers to justice.
Even when penalties are applied, the maximum punishment for a husband under these provisions is reportedly limited to just 15 days of imprisonment. Furthermore, the code allegedly states that a woman who leaves her husband's home without permission and refuses to return upon his request could face up to three months in jail.
Additionally, relatives who provide shelter to such women may also be considered to have committed an offense under the new legal framework, effectively isolating women from potential support networks and further diminishing their legal safeguards.
Broader Criticism and International Response
The Population Foundation of India (PFI) has characterized these reported developments as "shocking and dangerous," asserting that such provisions effectively amount to the legalization of systematic abuse against women. This sentiment reflects growing international concern about the Taliban's treatment of women since regaining control of Afghanistan.
The controversy surrounding Afghanistan's new penal code highlights ongoing tensions between the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic law and international human rights standards, particularly concerning gender equality and protection from violence.
