Taliban-Linked Outlet Denies Forced Conversion Claims Against Shia Students

DID Press: A media outlet aligned with Taliban has rejected reports alleging that Shia students were forced to change their religious beliefs, calling the claims part of a broader media campaign against the Afghan authorities.

The outlet dismissed recent reports circulated by some Persian-language media sources, describing them as “psychological warfare” and disconnected from Afghanistan’s social and religious realities.

It emphasized that Afghanistan is a multi-ethnic and multi-sectarian country where millions of Shia citizens live across different regions, arguing that claims of systematic forced conversion are neither practical nor credible.

The report also stated that during the past four years, officials of the Taliban administration have participated in Shia religious events and allowed the observance of religious ceremonies within the community.

It further claimed that several Shia figures have held meetings with senior Taliban officials and engaged in discussions on various issues.

The outlet added that members of the Shia community are active in parts of the state administration and hold positions in certain ministries.

The allegations of pressure on Shia students have sparked widespread reactions across media and social platforms, while Taliban representatives and affiliated media continue to reject them, framing the reports as attempts to fuel sectarian tensions in Afghanistan.