Neda Parwani, a prominent women’s rights activist, and her husband were granted bail and released from Taliban custody after enduring three months of detention, sources reported.
International human rights organizations reveal that fellow activists Zhulia Parsi, Manizha Sediqi, and Parisa Azada are currently held in Taliban prison, their fate uncertain.
Sources indicate that Parwani and her husband experienced “torture” during their three-month confinement, resulting in compromised mental and physical health. Following her release, Parwani was taken to the hospital for medical attention.
Munisa Mubariz, the founder of a women’s rights movement in Afghanistan, expressed hope for increased international pressure on the Taliban. She highlighted that similar efforts led to the release of other protesters and activists, anticipating a repeat for Parsi and Sediqi.
Parwani, along with her husband and child, was arrested in September by the Taliban in the Khairkhana area of Kabul. Known for her participation in women’s rights protests against the Taliban regime in Kabul, her arrest drew attention to the ongoing challenges faced by activists.
Human Rights Watch emphasized the broader issue of violence against Afghan women and the potential underreporting due to fear within families. Heather Barr, Human Rights Watch’s associate director of women’s affairs, noted that many women face such violence, but families often remain silent due to fear of reprisals.
Amnesty International commended the release of Neda Parwani and her husband, urging the immediate and unconditional release of other human rights activists held by the Taliban.
Since regaining power, the Taliban has imposed restrictions on women, including the closure of schools and universities and limitations on women’s movement in cities.
