Kabul: Taliban Bans Chess in Afghanistan

Authorities in Afghanistan have prohibited chess due to concerns over its association with gambling, which is deemed illegal under the Taliban’s interpretation of moral law, as reported by sports officials on Sunday.

Since taking control in 2021, the Taliban has consistently implemented regulations reflecting a stringent view of Islamic law.

“According to Sharia, chess is considered a form of gambling,” a representative stated, reinforcing the ban as part of efforts to promote virtue and curb unlawful behavior, which was announced last year.

“There are religious factors involved in the game of chess,” he added.

“The sport will remain suspended until these issues are resolved,” he said further.

Mashwani indicated that the National Chess Federation had not conducted any official tournaments for nearly two years, citing “leadership issues.”

Azizullah Gulzada, who runs a café in Kabul that has hosted informal chess competitions, emphasized that no gambling took place at his venue and pointed out that many other Muslim nations engage in chess.

“Several Islamic countries participate at the international level,” he remarked.

While expressing his intention to comply with the ban, he acknowledged the impact on patrons who enjoy the game and frequent his business.

“Many people have come here daily since young individuals lack recreational activities these days,” he mentioned, adding, “They drink tea and challenge friends at chess.”

In recent years, Afghan authorities have also placed restrictions on other sports, effectively barring women from participating in domestic competitions. Last year, a ban was imposed on mixed martial arts, deemed “violent” and incompatible with Sharia.