The government in Afghanistan has banned public officials and military personnel from using smartphones. A decree to this effect was issued by the supreme leader of the Taliban, Hibatullah Akhundzada, reports IPN citing Afghanistan International.
According to international press, individuals who do not comply with the new rule risk being referred to military courts. The order was transmitted by the Ministry of Justice to the leadership of the military courts, as well as to the police commanders and the heads of intelligence structures.
Additionally, a special monitoring mechanism has been established, which includes a record of the targeted individuals, with data about their position, workplace, and phone number. The heads of institutions have been obliged to confirm that the prohibition is being respected by their employees and collaborators under their supervision.
The measure comes after a series of restrictions imposed by the Taliban authorities in recent years. A few days ago, the Ministry of Education banned students from bringing smartphones to schools and religious seminars. In October last year, the use of smartphones was prohibited during working hours and on university premises. Only the leaders of educational institutions are exempt from the ban.
