The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has rejected US claims of minority rights violations, stating that it is committed to ensuring the rights of all minorities in the country. Hamdullah Fitrat, the Deputy Spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, asserted that the interim government has given special attention to ethnic groups considered minorities, ensuring they receive services.
Kabul 24: However, the US State Department’s annual “International Religious Freedom” report alleges that violations of religious minority rights increased in Afghanistan last year. The report cites a decrease in the Sikh and Hindu population since the Islamic Emirate’s return to power, with over 900 Sikh and Hindu citizens leaving the country.
The report also mentions that last year, the interim government did not protect the religious sites of minorities. Human rights organizations and victims of targeted attacks on religious minorities have provided evidence to support these claims.
Despite the Islamic Emirate’s denials, some Afghans have expressed concerns about the need for religious freedom. Zakiullah Mohammadi, a university professor, stated that the Islamic Emirate must grant religious freedom to the people. Hasibullah Hanafi, a religious scholar, cited the Quran’s teachings against coercion in matters of religion and the obligation to protect the beliefs of Sikhs, Jews, and Christians.
American officials have raised concerns about human rights and religious freedom in their meetings with the Islamic Emirate. The conflicting narratives highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring the protection of minority rights in Afghanistan.
