The Taliban regime in Afghanistan has carried out 114 public floggings across the country in the past month, including 20 women, according to a report by US-based Amu News. These punishments come despite repeated warnings from human rights organizations and the United Nations.

Rising Numbers and Areas Affected

Data shows a sharp increase in corporal punishment, particularly in Sunbula, where the number of women flogged doubled compared to the previous month. Overall floggings in the province rose nearly fivefold, from 10 cases last month to 50 this month.

Floggings were reported in at least 15 provinces, with the highest numbers recorded in Kabul, Parwan, and Takhar. Women punished were primarily accused of running away from home or moral offenses, according to local sources.

Global and Domestic Reactions

Human rights activists have strongly criticized the Taliban’s actions. Masooda Kohistani stated, “The Taliban are using public floggings to instill fear and normalize brutality.” Humaira Ibrahim added that these acts violate human dignity and serve to reinforce control over citizens through intimidation.

The United Nations has also expressed concern. Richard Bennett, UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, reported that 672 people have been flogged this year. While the Taliban defend these punishments as part of enforcing Sharia law, many international observers condemn them as inhumane.

Wider Context

Public floggings continue to be legally practiced in a few countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Malaysia, though they face global criticism for violating human rights standards.