Taliban Smartphone Ban Disrupts Work in Afghan Government Offices

The Taliban have banned the use of smartphones in military, civilian, educational, and governmental institutions throughout Afghanistan. The prohibition applies to all such entities, and those who violate it will have their devices confiscated. The confiscated smartphones are then publicly destroyed, and violators are also subject to legal punishment.

In the province of Panjshir, officials have confirmed that the ban is being fully enforced. The Taliban governor there has stated that the measure has been put into effect without any exceptions in all offices across the province. As a result, many government employees have indicated that administrative processes have largely come to a stop.

This disruption occurs because there is no efficient postal system in Afghanistan. Mobile phones had served as the main way for communication between the capital Kabul and various provinces. The ban extends beyond government offices to include universities and schools as well.

Due to these restrictions, demand for smartphones has seen a sharp drop in Kabul and other cities. Human rights activist Nazifa Jalali has commented on the situation, saying that the Taliban are using the ban to limit citizens' access to information. She has voiced concern that the policy might be expanded to other areas nationwide.