Taliban Government Reimposes Chess Ban in Afghanistan

Taliban government reimposes chess ban in Afghanistan

Chess mirrors the fanaticism of the Taliban government. Banned during the Taliban’s first rule (1996–2001) and tolerated — although women were not allowed to play — after they returned to power in 2021, it is now banned again on the grounds that it is a source of gambling, which is prohibited under Afghan law and described in the Quran as “an evil act.” Seguir leyendo

An Afghan chess champion is going to Germany. He cannot live without chess, he says.

Taliban Suspends Chess in Afghanistan, Citing Gambling and Sharia Concerns

The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan has suspended the game of chess indefinitely, citing concerns over its perceived connection to gambling and its compatibility with Islamic law. The announcement, made by Taliban officials on Sunday, reflects a continuing trend of cultural and recreational restrictions under the regime. Chess Banned Indefinitely Atal Mashwani, spokesperson for the Taliban’s Directorate of Physical Education and Sports, co…