At least two people were reportedly killed after Taliban forces moved to disperse a rare protest led by women in the western Afghan city of Herat, according to local sources and international media reports. The demonstration began after allegations surfaced that several women and girls had been detained for allegedly violating the Taliban’s dress code rules. Protesters gathered in parts of Herat demanding greater freedoms and calling for an end to restrictions imposed on women since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

Witnesses said Taliban security personnel fired shots as crowds attempted to march through the city. Videos circulating on social media appeared to show protesters running for cover amid sounds of gunfire and panic in the streets. The exact number of casualties remains unclear, but local activists claimed at least two people were killed and several others injured during the crackdown. Independent verification has been difficult due to tight media restrictions in Afghanistan.

Taliban authorities denied intentionally targeting civilians and stated that security forces intervened to control what they described as a disturbance to public order. Public protests have become increasingly rare in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, particularly demonstrations led by women. Since regaining control of the country nearly three years ago, the Taliban administration has imposed sweeping restrictions on women’s education, employment, travel, and public participation.

Women in Afghanistan are currently barred from higher education in most institutions, while many have also been removed from government jobs and restricted from working in several sectors. Human rights groups and international organizations have repeatedly criticized the Taliban’s policies, warning that growing restrictions are worsening the humanitarian and social crisis facing the country.

The protest in Herat is being viewed by activists as one of the most visible public displays of dissent in recent months, highlighting continued frustration among Afghan women despite the risks associated with speaking out. The United Nations and several rights organizations have called for an investigation into the reported violence and urged Taliban authorities to respect the rights of peaceful protesters.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from BBC.