Verum looked up from her crystal ball and said, “Mysticals, did you notice today’s date?”
Orak replied, “Yes. Twenty years ago, the terrorist group Al Qaeda launched four attacks in the United States (US). These attacks caused considerable loss of life and property.”
Scorch added, “The Taliban, an extremist group that ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001, protected Al Qaeda’s leaders. When the US found out, it invaded Afghanistan and overthrew the Taliban from power with the help of its troops. It mostly kept the Taliban at bay for nearly 20 years. But in 2021, US President Joe Biden started the process of withdrawing US troops from the war-torn country.”
“And now, 20 years later, the Taliban has taken over Afghanistan once again,” said Verum, “When it ruled Afghanistan between 1996 and 2001, the Taliban had extreme views about society. For instance, under Taliban rule, women weren’t allowed to study or hold jobs.”
“Oh, no,” said Felix.
“So, after the current takeover, women are worried about losing their rights and opportunities,” added Verum, “That’s why they haven’t remained silent.”
“What do you mean, Verum?” said Orak.
“Women in various cities like Kabul and Herat have begun protesting against the Taliban. They’re demanding the right to work, right to education, and participation in the government,” answered Verum, “This time, the Taliban has assured that they’ll allow women to work and study.”
“But, in Herat, several women have reported that they were told not to come to work in the past month. If they did arrive at their workplaces, they were turned away,” said Verum, “So, about 60 to 80 women protested in Herat, demanding their rights. Similar protests also took place in Kabul, the capital city.”
“Oh, I see,” said Scorch.
“Along with this, Afghans also protested outside Pakistan’s embassy,” continued Verum, “You see, on Monday, the Taliban claimed control over the Panjshir Province. Now, all of Afghanistan is under their control. But Pakistan allegedly helped the Taliban in achieving this. That’s why the people were protesting.”
“Unfortunately, the Taliban used tear gas and pepper spray to break up all these protests,” said Verum, “In Herat, reports claimed that two protestors had lost their lives while others got injured when the Taliban shot at them.”
“There is a long way to go,” said Orak.