Taliban bans internet in 5 provinces to prevent ‘immoral activities’

The Taliban administration has recently cut internet access across five provinces in northern Afghanistan, citing the need to prevent what it described as "immoral activities", according to a recent report by Reuters.

The ban, announced on September 17, is the first regional internet ban since the group seized power in 2021. It affects five provinces – Kunduz, Badakhshan, Baghlan, Takhar and Balkh, which together cover the main population centres of the north.

According to the report, the restriction applies to all fibre optic connections, leaving homes, offices and businesses without service. Mobile data, however, will remain available. 

The Taliban has long expressed concern over pornography and online interaction between men and women. Since returning to power, the group has imposed sweeping restrictions, including barring girls from high schools, preventing women from working in many sectors and enforcing strict codes of dress and behaviour, mentions the Reuter's report.