The Taliban has introduced a new 90-page penal code that has alarming implications for women's rights in Afghanistan. The law permits husbands to physically punish their wives and children, so long as there are no 'broken bones or open wounds' caused by the abuse. This shocking legal framework grants men the power to subject their families to violence without facing significant repercussions, as the maximum penalty for 'obscene force' is merely 15 days in prison. Furthermore, successful prosecution for domestic abuse is contingent on the wife's ability to provide proof of harm, reflecting a deeply entrenched patriarchal legal system.

In addition to the shocking provisions on domestic violence, the new laws impose severe restrictions on women’s autonomy. For instance, a married woman can be jailed for up to three months for visiting her relatives without her husband’s permission. This provision effectively reinforces the notion of women as the property or subordinates of their husbands, denying them basic freedoms and control over their lives. The implications of these laws extend beyond just legal punishment; they symbolize a broader normalization of abuse and control over women's lives in Afghan society.

The introduction of such laws reflects the Taliban’s commitment to a strict interpretation of gender roles and reinforces societal norms that devalue women's rights. It highlights a significant regression in human rights, where women are stripped of legal protections and are subjected to further violence and oppression. The international community is likely to respond with condemnation and calls for accountability, but the real impact will be felt by the women and families living under this oppressive regime in Afghanistan.