Afghan women banned from appearing on TV dramas

Kabul: Afghan women have been banned from appearing in TV dramas under new rules imposed by the Taliban government.  

In Afghanistan, Taliban government has unveiled new rules banning women in TV dramas.

Female journalists and presenters have also been ordered to wear headscarves on screen, although the guidelines do not say which type of covering to use. 

Following the new guidelines, female journalists and presenters have also been directed to wear headscarves on screen. 

The latest set of Taliban guidelines, issued to Afghan television channels, features eight new rules.

They include the banning of films considered against the principles of Shariah - or Islamic law and Afghan values.

Comedy and entertainment shows that insult religion or may be considered offensive to Afghans are also forbidden.

The Afghan administration has also banned foreign films that promoting foreign cultural values.

A member of an organisation that represents journalists in Afghanistan, Hujjatullah Mujaddedi, said the announcement of new restrictions was unexpected.

Talking to BBC, he said some of the rules are not practical and that if implemented, broadcasters may be forced to close. 

Reporters say some of the rules are vague and subject to interpretation.

The Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in mid-August and many fear they are gradually imposing harsh restrictions.

During their previous rule in the 1990s, women were barred from education and the workplace.

A member of an organisation that represents journalists in Afghanistan, Hujjatullah Mujaddedi, said the announcement of new restrictions was unexpected.