#internet-shutdown

#internet-shutdown

At 7pm, the scheduled start time, her laptop screen stayed black. The family's wifi, like the wireless internet across her neighbourhood, had gone and with it, her only chance to continue her education. These online classes were my only source of hope, says Marjaneh, speaking from Afghanistan through a crackling phone connection. I thought, when they [Taliban] closed schools at least they wouldn't cut the internet, but now that has been taken away too.

There are reports of severe disruption in other parts of the country, including the northern provinces of Kunduz, Badakhshan, Baghlan and Takhar. The Taliban leadership has not provided an official explanation, however a spokesperson for the governor of Balkh stated that the decision was taken to "prevent immorality." But many experts suspect the Islamic fundamentalist group wants to block critical content and preempt potential protests.