The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The Taliban’s Supreme Court said 16 people, including two women, have been given punitive sentences in Nangarhar province following rulings by the provincial primary court.
According to the Supreme Court, the individuals were convicted of crimes including illicit relationships, fleeing their homes, use and trade of drugs and alcoholic beverages. The sentences were implemented after the Supreme Court confirmed the decision, which was originally issued on January 20, 2026.
The primary court had sentenced the individuals to punishments ranging from 10 to 39 lashes. Taliban officials said the sentences were carried out in the presence of court officials and local residents.
The Taliban claim such rulings are in accordance with Sharia law and aim to prevent crimes and maintain social order.
However, in recent months, international organizations have increasingly criticized the implementation of punitive and public punishments by Taliban courts. The United Nations, the European Union, and human rights groups have repeatedly stated that such punishments violate international human rights standards and should be stopped.
Human Rights Watch also highlighted concerns over the lack of transparency in the courts, limited access to defense lawyers, and public execution of sentences as violations of fair trial principles.
The Taliban, however, have rejected these criticisms, insisting their judicial system is based on Islamic law and that they do not heed international pressure. Similar punitive measures have previously been carried out in other provinces, each time triggering broad domestic and international reactions.
