The Taliban government has suspended the game of chess across Afghanistan, citing concerns over its association with gambling.
A government official confirmed the decision on Sunday, stating it aligns with the country’s strict interpretation of Islamic law.
Taliban authorities have steadily tightened social and cultural activities since returning to power in August 2021.
Atal Mashwani, spokesperson for the Taliban’s sports directorate, announced the chess ban in a statement to the press.
He said chess is considered a form of gambling under Islamic principles, which Afghanistan’s morality law prohibits.
“Chess in Sharia is viewed as a means of gambling,” Mashwani said. “This violates the country’s religious laws.”
He added that chess would remain suspended nationwide until religious concerns are addressed.
Officials also noted that the national chess federation had remained inactive for two years.
Mashwani said the federation had unresolved leadership issues, contributing to the suspension of official chess activities.
Afghan chess enthusiasts have expressed dismay over the government’s latest move against recreational pastimes.
Azizullah Gulzada, who runs a café in Kabul that hosts chess games, said the ban would hurt local communities.
“My café often welcomed young people who came to play chess,” he told AFP. “It was their way to relax.”
Gulzada stressed that no gambling occurred during games at his establishment.
“Chess is played in many Islamic countries,” he noted. “It doesn’t violate religious beliefs when played properly.”
He said the suspension would affect his business and limit the few remaining leisure options for youth.
“Young people already lack recreational outlets,” Gulzada added. “Now they lose chess, which was harmless and engaging.”
The Taliban has restricted several sports and public activities since returning to rule Afghanistan.
In 2023, authorities banned mixed martial arts, citing excessive violence and incompatibility with Islamic teachings.
Women have also been banned from nearly all sports under Taliban directives.
This aligns with broader restrictions placed on women’s rights, including education and public appearances.
The Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has driven many of these recent policies.
International rights groups have repeatedly criticized the Taliban’s enforcement of religious codes on civilian life.
Critics argue that banning non-violent games like chess reflects growing intolerance toward personal freedoms.
Despite domestic and international concerns, the Taliban continues implementing its strict social doctrine.
Observers fear more activities may face suspension under ongoing religious scrutiny.
Afghans, particularly the youth, say the ban further isolates them from the global community and healthy pastimes.
The chess suspension remains indefinite, with no timeline given for policy review or reversal.
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