This Wednesday (20), seven men were flogged in Afghanistan, according to a court ruling, for various crimes. Including the sale and consumption of alcohol. This step is the first decision since the Taliban regained power last August.
The flogging reminds us of the severe punishments the regime imposed during its first exercise of power, between 1996 and 2001.
The Supreme Court said in a statement that the seven defendants confessed to their crimes and were sentenced to 35 lashes each.
“The verdict has been implemented today” in Kabul, a senior official in that court, Abdul Basir Mishaal, told AFP.
Five of the flogging defendants were each sentenced to six months in prison.
During their first term in power, the Taliban were characterized by an extremely strict interpretation of Islamic law, punishing even minor crimes with flogging and public executions.
The rules were particularly strict on women, and then she was humiliated and beaten by the feared religious police.
When they returned to the government last year, the Taliban promised to be more lenient, though they assured that they would continue to be guided by sharia.

Oliver Ashford is a contributor to Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting that helps readers stay informed about current affairs and developments that matter. With an emphasis on accuracy, relevance and accessibility, Oliver aims to present useful information and engaging stories in a straightforward manner, making complex topics easier for readers to understand and follow.