The Taliban's latest move to assert control over Afghan society has taken a drastic turn with the introduction of a blanket ban on smartphone use among government officials. A directive issued by the group's military courts, obtained by The Guardian, mandates that even junior officials must surrender their mobile phones, sparking fears of a broader clampdown on individual freedoms.
The draconian order, which came into effect this week, threatens severe penalties for non-compliance, including destruction of devices and sharia punishment. Exemptions are granted only to those who can obtain a written decree from the Taliban's supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada. Videos shared online appear to show officials enforcing the ban, with some individuals being seen destroying mobile phones in front of their colleagues.
The restrictions do not seem to be uniformly enforced, however, with reports emerging that the ban is being applied inconsistently across Afghanistan's provinces and cities. In some areas, only government personnel are affected, while in others, civilians, including women and medical workers, are also barred from using mobile phones. Analysts warn that this patchwork approach may be a 'dry run' for a nationwide prohibition on smartphone use.
The move is part of the Taliban's ongoing efforts to exert control over Afghanistan's digital landscape. In September, a two-day internet blackout was imposed across the country, ostensibly to combat pornography and immorality. However, this drastic measure caused significant disruption to commerce, banking, and essential services, prompting its swift reversal after widespread criticism.
The driving forces behind the smartphone ban are multifaceted. The Taliban is reportedly concerned about internal leaks of sensitive information, with officials allegedly using their mobile phones to photograph documents and record meetings without official clearance. Additionally, the group believes that excessive smartphone use is hindering productivity among its employees. Recent street protests in Herat, where videos of demonstrations against the arrest of women and girls for 'improper hijab' went viral, may have also contributed to the Taliban's decision to impose these new restrictions.