Suspension will remain until religious authorities review the game’s compliance with Sharia
Kabul, Afghanistan | Etawah Today Desk — In a move that has sparked concern among citizens and human rights advocates, the Taliban government on Sunday announced a nationwide suspension of chess in Afghanistan, citing concerns that the game could promote gambling—an activity forbidden under its interpretation of Islamic law.
Atal Mashwani, spokesperson for the Taliban’s General Directorate of Physical Education and Sports, confirmed the decision to AFP.”He said the Taliban has suspended the sport of chess in Afghanistan until these considerations are addressed.”
Chess Cafés Disrupted, Mental Health at Risk
In Kabul, the sudden ban has disrupted small community spaces where chess had long provided a recreational escape from daily hardships. Azizullah Gulzada, who operates a café that regularly hosted chess games, expressed concern over the impact of the decision.
“Young people don’t have a lot of activities these days, so many came here every day,” Gulzada said. “This decision affects not just our businesses but also the mental well-being of youth.”
He also stressed that no gambling took place and pointed out that chess remains popular and respected in several other Muslim-majority countries.
Pattern of Cultural Restrictions
Since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban has introduced sweeping restrictions on social and cultural life. Last year, the regime banned professional mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions, deeming them “violent” and incompatible with Sharia law.
“The Taliban has largely excluded women from public sports and athletic events, drawing sharp criticism from international human rights groups and sports federations.”
No Timeline for Review
“Officials have not announced an official timeline for lifting the chess ban. The Taliban has not yet specified what religious standards the game must meet for reinstatement.”
Many see the ban as another sign that the Taliban is increasingly enforcing a rigid interpretation of Islamic law, raising fears about the future of leisure, arts, and youth engagement in the country.
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