In a shocking case from Afghanistan, a disturbing marriage arrangement has sparked outrage, raising questions about cultural practices and human rights under Taliban rule. The story reveals a grim reality that demands attention.

Summary

• A 45-year-old Afghan man attempted to marry a girl in Helmand province.
• The girl was allegedly exchanged for money by her father to the man, who has two wives.
• The Taliban intervened, prohibiting the marriage until later.
• Such marriages have surged since the Taliban’s 2021 return, driven by poverty and education bans.
• International outrage, including from U.S. senators, has called for action against such practices.

Disturbing Marriage Attempt in Helmand

In Helmand province, a 45-year-old man sought to marry a six-year-old girl, a transaction reportedly facilitated by her father for cash, according to local sources. The man, already married to two women, was set to take the child as his third wife. 

The haunting image of the pair during the ceremony, circulating online, horrified even the Taliban, who stepped in to halt the union. 

“This case adds to growing evidence that child marriage is on the rise in Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power in 2021,” noted a report from Khaama Press, highlighting the systemic issues fueling these arrangements.

Taliban’s Surprising Intervention

Remarkably, the Taliban’s Department for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice intervened, decreeing that the man cannot live with the girl or treat the marriage as valid until she turns 15. 

This rare move by the Taliban, often criticized for their own oppressive policies, underscores the severity of the situation. 

“The case has sparked public concern, highlighting the ongoing issue of underage and forced marriages in Afghanistan, particularly involving girls too young to understand or consent,” stated The Afghan Times.

Rising Child Marriages Under Taliban Rule

Since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover, child marriages have surged, with UN Women reporting a 25% increase linked to the ban on girls’ education. 

“With fewer girls receiving an education, girls face a higher risk of child marriage with negative repercussions on their well-being and health,” UNICEF stated. 

Poverty and lack of legal protections exacerbate the crisis, leaving families desperate and vulnerable girls at risk. The international community, including all 24 female U.S. senators in 2021, urged President Biden to act against these practices, reflecting widespread alarm.

Call for Accountability

This incident exposes the moral decay in regions where tradition trumps basic human rights. 

“It’s legalised pedophilia,” said X user @PetenShirl, echoing conservative sentiments against such practices. America must lead in condemning these acts and supporting policies that protect the vulnerable, ensuring our values of freedom and dignity prevail globally.