The Taliban government in afghanistan has brought a new rule. That is, chess should no longer be played there. Because they believe that the game leads to gambling. They say that this decision was taken because gambling is a crime according to their Islamic laws. This was confirmed by an official of the sports department there on Sunday. The Taliban's sports department oversees all sports events in Afghanistan. According to Atal Mashwani, a spokesman for the department. According to Sharia law, chess is considered gambling. The Taliban strictly enforce this law.
Mashwani added, "Chess is considered a form of gambling in Sharia law. It was banned under a law announced last year." He clarified that the main reason for this decision was religious considerations. "There are some religious concerns about the game of chess. "The ban on chess in afghanistan will continue until those issues are resolved," Mashwani concluded. Azizullah Gulzada, who owns a cafe in Kabul, has hosted unofficial chess tournaments there for years. He denies any gambling. He also points out that chess is played in many Muslim countries. "There are players in many other islamic countries who play at an international level," he told AFP.

He said he respected the government's decision, but it would hurt his business and those who love the game. "There are not many proper jobs for young people these days. That's why many people come here every day. "They would have a cup of tea and play chess with their friends," he lamented. Afghan authorities have also imposed restrictions on other sports in the past few years. women in the country are completely banned from participating in sports. Last year, the government also banned free-fighting professional competitions such as mixed martial arts (MMA), which they say are too violent and contrary to Sharia.
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Sowmiya Sriram

12/05/2025 02:16 PM