Residents of Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province have staged large-scale protests against the Taliban’s decision to suspend mining activities, demanding the immediate reopening of gold-washing and small-scale mining operations. Demonstrators say the restrictions have cut off a vital source of income for local families already facing poverty and unemployment.
According to local reports, hundreds of people gathered in Nusay district, while residents from five districts – Khwahan, Shekai, Kofa, Nusay and Maimay – participated in the demonstrations. Protesters argued that the Taliban have denied them permits to work in the mines and said the rallies were aimed at defending local labour rights.
Many residents said mining is one of the few available sources of income in the region. Protesters noted that difficult economic conditions and limited agricultural opportunities this year have left communities with few alternatives for employment.
The unrest comes amid growing tensions in Badakhshan over control of gold resources. In May, the newly appointed head of the province’s Mines Department warned that unauthorized mining would not be allowed and threatened penalties for armed groups involved in mining activities. Reports also indicate that Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada ordered an investigation into the assets of local commanders and officials amid disputes linked to the mining sector.
Separately, reports said the Taliban issued a new decree regulating gold-washing activities in May and deployed a 1,000-member security unit to the province.
The protests highlight increasing pressure on Taliban authorities from local communities dependent on mining income. Continued restrictions could deepen economic grievances and fuel further unrest in Badakhshan.
