MEHTARLAM (Pajhwok): Religious scholars and tribal elders in Alingar district of eastern Laghman province have formed a 12-member authoritative committee to eliminate harmful traditions that deny women their rights.
Malik Mohammad Aman, tribal elder from the district and chairman of the committee, told Pajhwok Afghan News religious scholars and tribal elders from 63 councils in the district had unanimously decided to set up this committee to eliminate and fight against oppressive and damaging customs.
He stressed: “From now on, no father has the right to demand any form of dowry, including bride price (Walwar), engagement and wedding expenses, bridal gifts, Eid feasts, funeral expenses, or any other payments from the groom’s family.”
He assured the committee’s work was progressing well. However, if anyone violates its decisions, they will be officially referred to the district authorities for legal action.
Similarly, Maulvi Mohammad Qasim, a tribal elder and religious scholar from Katah Khel area of the district, said the committee was established to reform society.
He noted that in the past, families would demand exorbitant bride prices and additional payments under various names during weddings and engagements. However, the committee will now strictly prevent such practices.
Meanwhile, Information and Culture Director Maulvi Abdul Noor Rasooli also praised the efforts of tribal elders and religious scholars of the district.
He urged: “All Afghans should follow the example set by the tribes of Alingar and fight against all harmful and unrecognised traditions.”
Last week, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) leadership issued a decree aimed at eliminating harmful customs.
The decree specifically bans unnecessary expenses related to weddings, engagements, funerals, and celebrations for returning Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
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