Kabul: In another move to control media narratives, the Taliban Government in Afghanistan has suspended the broadcasts of Shamshad TV for its refusal to air anti-Pakistan propaganda.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Taliban government simultaneously halted Shamshad News’ TV, radio, and social media services. This action affected broadcasts in the provinces of Kandahar, Takhar, and Badghis, where the channel is known as the country’s second-largest private media outlet.

The suspension occurred due to Shamshad TV’s rejection of demands to promote anti-Pakistan narratives and to broadcast the Taliban government’s stance. The Afghan Journalists Center has reported a concerning increase in media suppression, marking a significant erosion of freedom of expression within the country.

The Taliban’s media policies, enacted under religious pretenses, have stripped the media of its freedom, creating an oppressive environment for Afghan journalists and women. The punitive measure against Shamshad TV underscores the Taliban’s narrow-minded approach and disregard for independent media.