The Taliban’s supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has issued an order banning the construction of windows in residential buildings that overlook neighboring homes, especially those with women residents, according to the Taliban’s Administrative Office.
The directive includes five articles. Article 1 states that when constructing a new building one alley away from another, windows must not face areas such as kitchens, water wells, or places where women are commonly visible.
Article 2 mandates that if existing buildings have windows that directly overlook a neighbor’s home, the owner must build a human-height wall in front of the window or take other actions to “eliminate” the harm caused.
The Taliban leader has instructed municipalities and relevant authorities to monitor construction projects to prevent windows that overlook neighboring homes.
“Municipalities and other relevant agencies are obligated to oversee construction work and prevent the installation of windows that violate this directive,” according to Article 3.
Since regaining power in August 2021, the Taliban has enacted over 80 decrees restricting women’s rights, including bans on secondary and higher education and employment in NGOs.
Despite global condemnation, the Taliban maintains they are enforcing Islamic Sharia and urges the international community to avoid interference.
