August 15th 2021 is a date which is etched in the memories of all Afghans across the world. It was a nightmare to witness the fall of the Afghan Republic and our flag - the symbol of our identity within the international community.

One year down the road and majority of Afghans have still not come to terms with everything that happened post August 2021. Personally, I still struggle to comprehend the events that unfolded and eventually, led to the fall of Kabul, my homeland.

Conflict has been synonymous with Afghanistan’s name for the past four decades. Globally, Afghanistan is commonly associated with terrorism, war and opium. No one cared to look beyond the stereotypical, generalized notions about my homeland. I am not saying those projections were all false, but they weren’t entirely true. Afghanistan has so much more to offer.

Here we are on 15th of August 2022, marking the one-year anniversary of Kabul’s fall and victory of the IEA forces in Afghanistan. While we all know how the political transition happened and what unfolded afterwards, it is much more important to understand the serious implications this transition brought for the millions of common Afghans - especially women and girls.

A roller coaster of emotions took over us. Dread, pain, grief, loss and uncertainty eclipsed our hopes. The trauma will continue to haunt us for years to come and perhaps, only perseverance and time will heal us.

With the fall of the republic and the establishment of the new regime, the public sector took a big hit. While the system already faced a number of challenges, political transition just made it worse. Sectors such as healthcare, education and economy were severely crippled and continue to struggle till date.

Access to education is considered one of the most vital rights for a child and every nation must ensure that all children get an equal opportunity to quality education.

However, the prohibition on teenage girls to go back to school is the perfect example of how political chaos has deprived Afghan girls from their basic right to education for over 330 days (and counting).

The Twitter hashtag #LetAfghanGirlsLearn has been trending for months on different social media platforms while, on the other hand we have some INGOs and local NGOs who have been trying to advocate and appeal to the world and current authorities in Afghanistan in order to provoke a change regarding this issue. However, there are no actual results.

Every day my teenage cousins ask me whether they would ever go back to school? Whether they will be able to fulfil their aspirations? Unfortunately, I have no answers for them. I feel absolutely helpless thinking about the millions of other deprived girls.

With each passing day, the world is failing Afghan girls by choosing to be silent. In my opinion, no good will ever come to a country where girls are denied their right to education.

Following the collapse of the previous government, I still remember the mayhem one could witness outside banks after 15th of August 2021. Everyone was just trying to rush to the banks and get their money out because they knew that they would lose all their savings if the banking system collapsed.

Unfortunately, there is not much of an improvement for the Afghan economy. Even after a year the economy is only plummeting and deepening the already existing humanitarian crisis.

In the initial days post 15th of August 2021, there was a huge liquidity crisis across the country which crippled the banking system and to further add to our miseries, Afghanistan’s foreign currency reserves were frozen as well. Additionally, Afghanistan was a country highly dependent on foreign funding for its survival so with the fall of the republic and the halt in funding from donor countries, the situation worsened.

People across Afghanistan have plunged into deeper levels of poverty over the past year and the situation remains dire. Almost 97% of families are struggling to provide enough food for their children (Save the Children, August 2022) and this inch-meal we are getting poorer in all respects.

Furthermore, it is not only the banking system, but also the healthcare system and other basic public services that are being affected and will jeopardize the lives of millions of Afghans.

We are in a deep humanitarian crisis.

Most importantly, let us be mindful to acknowledge that the fate was my country is nothing but a manufactured catastrophe.

Sadly, there has also been a significant brain drain since the Taliban came to power, I am certain that majority will return to Afghanistan if and when the conditions are stable. No one wishes to leave their home and stay away by choice.

Like me, there are many in Afghanistan who chose to stay back and are yearning for a better future. It is inspiring to see many Afghan-led initiatives such as PenPath, Charmaghz, Ehtesab, LEARN AFG and many more who continue to bring the best out of the worst conditions for us.

May the Afghan spirit never cease to exist!

The author is a postgraduate scholar pursuing International Relations, with a specialization in Peace &amp; Diplomacy from Kardan University, Afghanistan. She is currently engaged with a prominent INGO working in the humanitarian sector.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

&nbsp;

August 15th 2021 is a date which is etched in the memories of all Afghans across the world. It was a nightmare to witness the fall of the Afghan Republic and our flag - the symbol of our identity within the international community.

August 15th 2021 is a date which is etched in the memories of all Afghans across the world. It was a nightmare to witness the fall of the Afghan Republic and our flag - the symbol of our identity within the international community. One year down the road and majority of Afghans have still not come to terms with everything that happened post August 2021. Personally, I still struggle to comprehend the events that unfolded and eventually, led to the fall of Kabul, my homeland. Conflict has been synonymous with Afghanistan’s name for the past four decades. Globally, Afghanistan is commonly associated with terrorism, war and opium. No one cared to look beyond the stereotypical, generalized notions about my homeland. I am not saying those projections were all false, but they weren’t entirely true. Afghanistan has so much more to offer. Here we are on 15th of August 2022, marking the one-year anniversary of Kabul’s fall and victory of the IEA forces in Afghanistan. While we all know how the political transition happened and what unfolded afterwards, it is much more important to understand the serious implications this transition brought for the millions of common Afghans - especially women and girls. A roller coaster of emotions took over us. Dread, pain, grief, loss and uncertainty eclipsed our hopes. The trauma will continue to haunt us for years to come and perhaps, only perseverance and time will heal us. With the fall of the republic and the establishment of the new regime, the public sector took a big hit. While the system already faced a number of challenges, political transition just made it worse. Sectors such as healthcare, education and economy were severely crippled and continue to struggle till date. Access to education is considered one of the most vital rights for a child and every nation must ensure that all children get an equal opportunity to quality education. However, the prohibition on teenage girls to go back to school is the perfect example of how political chaos has deprived Afghan girls from their basic right to education for over 330 days (and counting). The Twitter hashtag #LetAfghanGirlsLearn has been trending for months on different social media platforms while, on the other hand we have some INGOs and local NGOs who have been trying to advocate and appeal to the world and current authorities in Afghanistan in order to provoke a change regarding this issue. However, there are no actual results. Every day my teenage cousins ask me whether they would ever go back to school? Whether they will be able to fulfil their aspirations? Unfortunately, I have no answers for them. I feel absolutely helpless thinking about the millions of other deprived girls. With each passing day, the world is failing Afghan girls by choosing to be silent. In my opinion, no good will ever come to a country where girls are denied their right to education. Following the collapse of the previous government, I still remember the mayhem one could witness outside banks after 15th of August 2021. Everyone was just trying to rush to the banks and get their money out because they knew that they would lose all their savings if the banking system collapsed. Unfortunately, there is not much of an improvement for the Afghan economy. Even after a year the economy is only plummeting and deepening the already existing humanitarian crisis. In the initial days post 15th of August 2021, there was a huge liquidity crisis across the country which crippled the banking system and to further add to our miseries, Afghanistan’s foreign currency reserves were frozen as well. Additionally, Afghanistan was a country highly dependent on foreign funding for its survival so with the fall of the republic and the halt in funding from donor countries, the situation worsened. People across Afghanistan have plunged into deeper levels of poverty over the past year and the situation remains dire. Almost 97% of families are struggling to provide enough food for their children (Save the Children, August 2022) and this inch-meal we are getting poorer in all respects. Furthermore, it is not only the banking system, but also the healthcare system and other basic public services that are being affected and will jeopardize the lives of millions of Afghans. We are in a deep humanitarian crisis. Most importantly, let us be mindful to acknowledge that the fate was my country is nothing but a manufactured catastrophe. Sadly, there has also been a significant brain drain since the Taliban came to power, I am certain that majority will return to Afghanistan if and when the conditions are stable. No one wishes to leave their home and stay away by choice. Like me, there are many in Afghanistan who chose to stay back and are yearning for a better future. It is inspiring to see many Afghan-led initiatives such as PenPath, Charmaghz, Ehtesab, LEARN AFG and many more who continue to bring the best out of the worst conditions for us. May the Afghan spirit never cease to exist! The author is a postgraduate scholar pursuing International Relations, with a specialization in Peace & Diplomacy from Kardan University, Afghanistan. She is currently engaged with a prominent INGO working in the humanitarian sector. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Afghanistan under Taliban: Narrated by an Afghan woman

Taliban marked the first anniversary of their return to power in Afghanistan. A turbulent year wherein women's rights were crushed and humanitarian crisis worsened.

One year of Taliban regime: A year of grave human rights violation?

August 15th marks one year since the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan. Many believe that former President Ashraf Ghani is the one mainly responsible for the situation here stating that he failed in his mission in Afghanistan.

August 15th marks one year since Taliban 2.0 in Afghanistan; experts hold Ashraf Ghani responsible

It has been one year since the Taliban took over Afghanistan and the country has witnessed a lot of changes apart from a dwindling economy. The health and infrastructure of the country is in a shambles.

24.4 million need humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan

An Afghan envoy has held former President Ashraf Ghani responsible for thousands of troops being murdered during the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan.

Afghan Envoy: Ghani is responsible for thousand troops murdered

While Afghanistan nears Taliban's first anniversary of takeover, Taliban cracked down on women protesters. Taliban has been accused of taking away women rights in the south Asian nation.

Kabul: Women led protests in front of Education Ministry

The Afghanistan Ambassador to Tajikistan Muhammad Zahir Agbar has slammed Afghanistan's Ashraf Ghani and blamed him for "situation in Afghanistan" for which the responsibility is in the "hand of Ghani.". Ghani was the President of the Afghan Republic that collapsed on 15th August 2021 as he fled the country amid Taliban takeover. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Agbar made a major claim that Ghani was responsible for embezzlement.

Ghani buried by history, embezzled money says Afghan Envoy to Tajikistan Muhammad Zahir Agbar

Ghani buried by history, embezzled money says Afghan Envoy to Tajikistan Muhammad Zahir

The older girls in Afghanistan schools are familiar with the procedure when inspectors show up at the school gate, which happens most weeks now. They sneak out of class, dash to a musty room, and huddle there for long time, occasionally even for hours, so that they are not seen by the guys who want to keep them locked up at home. In the world, the Taliban are the only group that forbid girls from attending secondary school.

After the US military left the country and the militant group took control, learning algebra is now considered to be an illegal act of resistance. Teenagers must consider what will happen if they are discovered in a classroom in addition to worrying about difficult arithmetic, English grammar, or Persian poetry.

Taliban representatives assert that the prohibition is only temporary, citing numerous reasons such as the necessity to alter security, uniforms, teachers, buildings, or curricula. But many Afghans can still clearly recall the group's previous six-year rule, during which female schools were "temporarily" closed.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-from-grimus-to-quichotte-british-indian-writer-salman-rushdies-finest-works-506550">In pics | From Grimus to Quichotte: British-Indian writer Salman Rushdie's finest works</a>

As a result, women and men all over Afghanistan started resisting as their daughters felt the pain of their ambitions of becoming physicians, pilots, engineers, teachers, or artists crushed. All around the nation, "secret schools" have popped up, as diverse as the teachers in charge of them. Some are offered online, although only a small percentage of Afghans have cellphones and data access.

Some are private schools that continue to run largely as they did in the past, free from the lingering shadow of terror. Others are far more impromptu attempts that serve more as morale boosters and alternatives for females who are studying in the hopes that schools will reopen.

(with inputs from agencies)

The older girls in Afghanistan schools are familiar with the procedure when inspectors show up at the school gate, which happens most weeks now. They sneak out of class, dash to a musty room, and huddle there for long time, occasionally even for hours, so that they are not seen by the guys who want to keep them locked up at home.

The older girls in Afghanistan schools are familiar with the procedure when inspectors show up at the school gate, which happens most weeks now. They sneak out of class, dash to a musty room, and huddle there for long time, occasionally even for hours, so that they are not seen by the guys who want to keep them locked up at home. In the world, the Taliban are the only group that forbid girls from attending secondary school. After the US military left the country and the militant group took control, learning algebra is now considered to be an illegal act of resistance. Teenagers must consider what will happen if they are discovered in a classroom in addition to worrying about difficult arithmetic, English grammar, or Persian poetry. Taliban representatives assert that the prohibition is only temporary, citing numerous reasons such as the necessity to alter security, uniforms, teachers, buildings, or curricula. But many Afghans can still clearly recall the group's previous six-year rule, during which female schools were "temporarily" closed. Also Read: In pics | From Grimus to Quichotte: British-Indian writer Salman Rushdie's finest works As a result, women and men all over Afghanistan started resisting as their daughters felt the pain of their ambitions of becoming physicians, pilots, engineers, teachers, or artists crushed. All around the nation, "secret schools" have popped up, as diverse as the teachers in charge of them. Some are offered online, although only a small percentage of Afghans have cellphones and data access. Some are private schools that continue to run largely as they did in the past, free from the lingering shadow of terror. Others are far more impromptu attempts that serve more as morale boosters and alternatives for females who are studying in the hopes that schools will reopen. (with inputs from agencies)

Secret schools: Afghan girls defy Taliban, take huge risks to continue studies

It was roughly a year since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, and since then, the country has witnessed lots of changes apart from a dwindling economy.

Afghanistan: One year since the Taliban took control of Kabul

15th August marks one year since the Taliban stormed to power in Afghanistan and the former foreign president Ashraf Ghani blamed ex-official for not supporting his government.

'I am still Afghan president,' says Ashraf Ghani

Afghan envoy holds Ashraf Ghani responsible for thousands of troops being murdered

Taliban cracks down on women protesters in Afghanistan; Protests before Taliban's first anniversary

UN: Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis is the world's worst

The Taliban have reportedly permanently banned women from becoming flight attendants on Afghanistan’s national flag carrier airline.

Reports: Taliban have permanently banned women flight attendants

Female refugees from Afghanistan are learning how to swim through the 'Afghan women on the move' program which is also designed to help refugees learn how to drive and find jobs too.

Afghan refugees in Australia build a new life, social programmes help newly arrived

It has been a year since the Taliban seized back power in Afghanistan, since then, the country has witnessed a lot of changes. Despite making humanitarian promises, the Taliban is sticking to its own ways.

One year since Taliban seized power in Afghanistan

Since the take over of Afghanistan by the Taliban, the country's economic prospects continue to remain grim. The country's children bear the most brunt of the economic situation as 97% of the population remains below poverty.

Afghanistan children bear the brunt of economic woes, 97% population below poverty

A bipartisan bill has been submitted in both houses of the US Congress, a year after the US withdrew from Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to seize power and sparking a catastrophic refugee crisis. With the passage of this Act, thousands of Afghan evacuees who were previously granted temporary immigration status will now have a clear road to citizenship. Similar versions of the legislation were introduced only days before the first anniversary of the disorderly evacuation operation that ended America's longest war, saw the Taliban take over Kabul and the last US troops leave the country.

Watch |&nbsp;Schools to remain shut for girls in Afghanistan till new rules are drawn up

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According to Reuters, the bill would also extend eligibility for Special Immigration Visas (SIVs) to Afghan women who served in special counterterrorism teams as well as commandos and air force personnel who fought with US forces.

Democratic Representative Earl Blumenauer and Republican Representative Peter Meijer, who are co-sponsors of the House legislation, said in a statement, "We must keep our commitment to provide safe, legal refuge to those who willingly put their lives on the line to support the US&nbsp;mission in Afghanistan."

A large portion of the 76,000 Afghans who were evacuated from their home country last year arrived in the country under humanitarian parole, a temporary immigration status that usually only lasts up to two years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-pakistani-taliban-leader-killed-in-ied-attack-in-afghanistan-505051" hreflang="en">Top Pakistani Taliban leader killed in IED attack in Afghanistan</a>

Pending additional background checks, the proposal would enable those evacuees to make an application for permanent legal status.&nbsp;

Typically, these Afghans can only obtain long-term legal status in the US by submitting an application for asylum or through the severely backlogged SIV programmes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-honoring-hero-afghan-soldier-in-kabul-who-killed-unarmed-australians-504779" hreflang="en">Taliban honouring 'Hero' Afghan soldier in Kabul who killed unarmed Australian diggers</a>

The Afghanistan Adjustment Act's chances of passing were increased when three minority Republicans, including Senator Lindsey Graham, joined three majority Democrats in introducing an identical version of the bill in the Senate's thinly divided senate.&nbsp;However, a congressional aide who spoke to Reuters&nbsp;on the condition of anonymity said the legislation will probably encounter "resistance" from a few anti-immigration Republicans.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A bipartisan bill has been submitted in both houses of the US Congress, a year after the US withdrew from Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to seize power and sparking a catastrophic refugee crisis.

A bipartisan bill has been submitted in both houses of the US Congress, a year after the US withdrew from Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to seize power and sparking a catastrophic refugee crisis. With the passage of this Act, thousands of Afghan evacuees who were previously granted temporary immigration status will now have a clear road to citizenship. Similar versions of the legislation were introduced only days before the first anniversary of the disorderly evacuation operation that ended America's longest war, saw the Taliban take over Kabul and the last US troops leave the country. Watch | Schools to remain shut for girls in Afghanistan till new rules are drawn up According to Reuters, the bill would also extend eligibility for Special Immigration Visas (SIVs) to Afghan women who served in special counterterrorism teams as well as commandos and air force personnel who fought with US forces. Democratic Representative Earl Blumenauer and Republican Representative Peter Meijer, who are co-sponsors of the House legislation, said in a statement, "We must keep our commitment to provide safe, legal refuge to those who willingly put their lives on the line to support the US mission in Afghanistan." A large portion of the 76,000 Afghans who were evacuated from their home country last year arrived in the country under humanitarian parole, a temporary immigration status that usually only lasts up to two years. Also read | Top Pakistani Taliban leader killed in IED attack in Afghanistan Pending additional background checks, the proposal would enable those evacuees to make an application for permanent legal status. Typically, these Afghans can only obtain long-term legal status in the US by submitting an application for asylum or through the severely backlogged SIV programmes. Also read | Taliban honouring 'Hero' Afghan soldier in Kabul who killed unarmed Australian diggers The Afghanistan Adjustment Act's chances of passing were increased when three minority Republicans, including Senator Lindsey Graham, joined three majority Democrats in introducing an identical version of the bill in the Senate's thinly divided senate. However, a congressional aide who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity said the legislation will probably encounter "resistance" from a few anti-immigration Republicans. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

A year after it abandoned Afghanistan, US introduces bill to give thousands of Afghans path to citizenship

It has been a year since the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Since then the country has witnessed a lot of changes despite making humanitarian promises, the Taliban is sticking to its ways. Many sections of the people in Afghanistan, especially women are facing a range of restrictions some of them very oppressive.

Schools to remain shut for girls in Afghanistan till new rules are drawn up

Before Afghanistan was left at the mercy of the Taliban, the country was promised aid from the Green Climate fund but with the fall of Kabul every channel of cash flow immediately stopped but what did not stop is richer countries contributing to the country's emissions.

WION Climate Tracker | Crippling dry spell grips war-torn Afghanistan

One year after ending the war in Afghanistan, the CIA speak less about counterterrorism and more about the political, economic and military threats posed by China. Molly Gambhir tells you all about this pivot by the US spy agency.

WION Fineprint: The CIA is shifting its focus to China amid Taiwan tensions

From Israeli-Palestinian conflict to Shiite Muslims taking part in a Muharram procession in Kandahar, Afghanistan, here are some impactful images from around the world on 08 August 2022.

World in Pictures: Israeli-Palestinian conflict; Muharram procession in Afghanistan

Targeted attacks on minorities, no education rights for girls nor freedom of speech for journalists, that is Afghanistan under Taliban. Each and every day the question arises, is Taliban 2.0 a repeat of its previous regime?

Afghanistan under Taliban: No education for girls, no freedom for media

IN PICS | What life in Afghanistan looks like after one year of Taliban rule?

Its been more than a year since the Taliban took over Afghanistan and since day one the group has claimed that it is reformed. Many expected the Taliban, who had previously ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001, would change its traditional ways. The phrase "Taliban 2.0" was coined, but, is there any change? The recent ordeal borne by WION's reporter and Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick and the couple of weeks old tribulation faced by Australian journalist Lynne O’Donnell are glaring examples of the Taliban's radical and regressive ways.

For those who are unaware of two incidents let us give you a lowdown. On Thursday, August 4 2022, WION correspondent Anas Mallick was detained by the Taliban and subjected to 21 hours of physical assault. This after he was duly accredited, and had all the press credentials.&nbsp;

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In a similar incident, another journalist, this time an Australian woman, was detained by the Taliban.

After arriving in Kabul for her reporting on the suffering of women under the Taliban administration and how young girls are used as sex slaves, Lynne O'Donnell was apprehended.&nbsp;

O'Donnell, who is a reporter with Foreign Policy magazine was imprisoned for three days and she was made to tweet an apology for having written about the atrocities committed by the militant group.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wion-correspondent-anas-mallick-shows-torn-clothes-and-injuries-as-he-reveals-his-trauma-504109">WION correspondent Anas Mallick shows torn clothes and injuries as he reveals his trauma</a>&nbsp;

Pressure from relevant government authorities in New&nbsp;Delhi, Islamabad and Kabul helped secure Anas' safe release, and he returned to his home in Islamabad, Pakistan within 24 hours.&nbsp;However, the local producer and driver that accompanied him are still being imprisoned by the Taliban.

Even as he's trying to cope with the mental, and physical trauma, he believes he only suffered 25 per cent of the assault while his companions who are still in the Taliban's hands were subjected to 75 per cent of it. What will become of them? Only time will tell.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wions-anas-mallick-abduction-by-taliban-local-producer-and-driver-still-being-held-504117">WION's Anas Mallick abducted by Taliban: Local producer and driver still in captivity</a>

In the past too the organisation has caused unnecessary hardships for journalists who work relentlessly for the good of society.

What has the group not done? It compelled female journalists to cover their faces on TV, to quit their jobs, girls can't get an education, women can't go out alone,&nbsp;minorities are being subjected to atrocities and much more. People, especially women are suffering.&nbsp;It took them the 20 years of the US-led invasion of Afghanistan to acquire rights to things like education and employment, and now those rights have vanished. Is this the "modern" Taliban, they were promised?

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

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Its been more than a year since the Taliban took over Afghanistan and since day one the group has claimed that it is reformed. Many expected the Taliban, who had previously ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001, would change its traditional ways.

Its been more than a year since the Taliban took over Afghanistan and since day one the group has claimed that it is reformed. Many expected the Taliban, who had previously ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001, would change its traditional ways. The phrase "Taliban 2.0" was coined, but, is there any change? The recent ordeal borne by WION's reporter and Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick and the couple of weeks old tribulation faced by Australian journalist Lynne O’Donnell are glaring examples of the Taliban's radical and regressive ways. For those who are unaware of two incidents let us give you a lowdown. On Thursday, August 4 2022, WION correspondent Anas Mallick was detained by the Taliban and subjected to 21 hours of physical assault. This after he was duly accredited, and had all the press credentials. In a similar incident, another journalist, this time an Australian woman, was detained by the Taliban. After arriving in Kabul for her reporting on the suffering of women under the Taliban administration and how young girls are used as sex slaves, Lynne O'Donnell was apprehended. O'Donnell, who is a reporter with Foreign Policy magazine was imprisoned for three days and she was made to tweet an apology for having written about the atrocities committed by the militant group. Also read | WION correspondent Anas Mallick shows torn clothes and injuries as he reveals his trauma Pressure from relevant government authorities in New Delhi, Islamabad and Kabul helped secure Anas' safe release, and he returned to his home in Islamabad, Pakistan within 24 hours. However, the local producer and driver that accompanied him are still being imprisoned by the Taliban. Even as he's trying to cope with the mental, and physical trauma, he believes he only suffered 25 per cent of the assault while his companions who are still in the Taliban's hands were subjected to 75 per cent of it. What will become of them? Only time will tell. Also read | WION's Anas Mallick abducted by Taliban: Local producer and driver still in captivity In the past too the organisation has caused unnecessary hardships for journalists who work relentlessly for the good of society. What has the group not done? It compelled female journalists to cover their faces on TV, to quit their jobs, girls can't get an education, women can't go out alone, minorities are being subjected to atrocities and much more. People, especially women are suffering. It took them the 20 years of the US-led invasion of Afghanistan to acquire rights to things like education and employment, and now those rights have vanished. Is this the "modern" Taliban, they were promised? (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Same old radical, regressive beliefs, is this the Taliban 2.0 the world was promised?

WION's Anas Mallick was held captive by the Taliban for 21 hours after he went to Kabul on a reporting assignment. Anas Mallick tells Molly Gambhir about what he went through.

WION Fineprint: WION's Anas Mallick assaulted in Afghanistan

The relations between Afghanistan and India have been frozen since the Taliban took control in Kabul last year. However, there seems to be some progress in the relations between the two nations, with Afghanistan and India resuming flights.

Flight between Afghanistan and India resume

Killing eight civilians in an area largely inhabited by Afghanistan's minority Shiite Muslim community, a bomb attached to a handcart exploded in Kabul on Friday.

Injuring 18 people, the blast took place when Shiites in Afghanistan are commemorating the first 10 days of the Muslim holy month of Muharram.

According to police spokesman Khalid Zadran, "Security teams are trying to find the perpetrators."

Saying the bombing was the "work of those who are enemies of Islam and the country", government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the toll.

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Taking responsibility for the attack, the Sunni jihadist Islamic State said IS fighters placed explosives in a vegetable cart.

Zadran said Afghan police believes that members of the ethnic Hazara community, who are Shiite Muslims, were the target of the blast.

They were going to gather at mosques and take part in processions marking the death of the revered Shiite Imam Hussein Ibn Ali after a few days.

IS has continued to target Shiites even though number of violent public attacks across the country has fallen since the Taliban returned to power in August last year.

The minority group, which makes up between 10 to 20 percent of Afghanistan's population of 38 million, is called heretic by Islamic State.

Analysts say the jihadist group remains a key security challenge although Taliban officials insist their forces have defeated IS. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Killing eight civilians in an area largely inhabited by Afghanistan's minority Shiite Muslim community, a bomb attached to a handcart exploded in Kabul on Friday.

Killing eight civilians in an area largely inhabited by Afghanistan's minority Shiite Muslim community, a bomb attached to a handcart exploded in Kabul on Friday. Injuring 18 people, the blast took place when Shiites in Afghanistan are commemorating the first 10 days of the Muslim holy month of Muharram. According to police spokesman Khalid Zadran, "Security teams are trying to find the perpetrators." Saying the bombing was the "work of those who are enemies of Islam and the country", government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the toll. × Taking responsibility for the attack, the Sunni jihadist Islamic State said IS fighters placed explosives in a vegetable cart. Zadran said Afghan police believes that members of the ethnic Hazara community, who are Shiite Muslims, were the target of the blast. They were going to gather at mosques and take part in processions marking the death of the revered Shiite Imam Hussein Ibn Ali after a few days. IS has continued to target Shiites even though number of violent public attacks across the country has fallen since the Taliban returned to power in August last year. The minority group, which makes up between 10 to 20 percent of Afghanistan's population of 38 million, is called heretic by Islamic State. Analysts say the jihadist group remains a key security challenge although Taliban officials insist their forces have defeated IS. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Islamic State claims responsibility for blast that killed 8 in Shiite area of Afghan capital

WION’s correspondent Anas Mallick was abducted by the Taliban, he faced physical assault and mental trauma. A day later, he was released but his team, a local producer and car driver, is still being held with the Taliban fighters.&nbsp;

On Friday (August 5) evening, Anas was safely returned to his home in Islamabad, Pakistan. Later he opened up about his distressing experience of being held for 21 hours.&nbsp;

He said, "The experience is yet to sink in to be very honest because I am still going through that mental trauma or the ordeal. Because it's still not over."&nbsp;

Recalling the exact moment he was forcibly taken away, he said, "A moment back I was on the phone, I got a location to be at another place, to be with a colleague to have lunch...just in seconds, in a snap, everything changed. You are intercepted, the driver is out of the car, and your phones are taken away."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wion-correspondent-safe-leaves-afghanistan-after-reporting-from-the-ground-on-zawahiri-killing-504065">WION correspondent, who went missing in Afghanistan, is safe. Recalls his ordeal</a>&nbsp;

"It felt like a bad, bad dream to be very honest," Anas said as he told the world, what he went through in those 21 hours. Anas was allowed to walk free but the local producer and our driver are still being held by the Taliban.

He said that he is still yet to fully get over the fact that this actually happened, the assault was this extreme. "I still have bruises on the back of my ear, on my back, on my hip, literally all over the body," he said.&nbsp;

Anas is WION's reporter based out in Pakistan's capital. Anas has been reporting on Afghanistan developments for nearly five years for WION. he has done some exclusive, on-the-ground coverage when the Taliban took over Kabul last year.&nbsp;

He had arrived in Kabul on Wednesday evening and the next morning, approached Afghanistan’s ministry of foreign affairs to get the due permission. He also had completed the necessary formalities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/handcuffed-blindfolded-and-physically-assaulted-what-happened-to-wions-anas-mallick-in-kabul-504095">'Handcuffed, blindfolded and physically assaulted': What happened to WION's Anas Mallick in Kabul?</a>&nbsp;

Expressing his anger, Anas said that it's something you would never expect for an accredited journalist, for an international journalist for somebody who has been known to the Taliban as well.&nbsp;

He said, "We were the only Indian network in Kabul at the time of the fall of Kabul. And we were there three months post-takeover. I was literally at all the press conferences, at all the press briefings and despite all of this, it happened so it was a very bad dream."&nbsp;

In the past week, Anas also did extensive reporting on the United States' claims that Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a drone strike in Kabul.&nbsp;

But what did exactly anger the Taliban? Why our correspondent was detained and beaten up?&nbsp;

Shedding some light on that, Anas said that "this is more to do with the security fear for the Taliban of being shown or rather shown the side that they do not want to be projected."&nbsp;

"When you go for accreditation, you are given a long lecture on don'ts and media ethics. In fact, I was given one such lecture yesterday as well during my interrogation I would say what are the ethics of media," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-abducted-anas-mallick-a-21-hour-long-trauma-for-the-wion-family-504154">Taliban abducted Anas Mallick: A 21-hour long trauma for the WION family</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

After touching down in Islamabad on Friday, Anas revealed that he and his team were handcuffed, blindfolded and physically assaulted after being picked up by the Taliban.&nbsp;

While speaking about his ordeal, he said, "I don't know the reason I was picked up, if was to do with any footage then that matter was actually cleared within seconds. But, this must to do with fear that they think that they will be exposed if there is truly a free press if there is truly free reportage."&nbsp;

Anas reminded the world that as journalists, we have the responsibility, to tell the truth. We have always advocated at WION that we have to tell the story. He said, "In my seven years, this, unfortunately, this is the first time that it is me who is the story, and that is something that is truly tragic at least on a personal note."&nbsp;

Anas recounted when he was leaving Kabul. he said he was "very emotional". "There was an Afghan family right next to me and they said we saw you on TV and we were reading about your reports that you were missing. I couldn't hold back my tears at that point in time," said Anas.&nbsp;

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WION’s correspondent Anas Mallick was abducted by the Taliban, he faced physical assault and mental trauma. A day later, he was released but his team, a local producer and car driver, is still being held with the Taliban fighters.

WION’s correspondent Anas Mallick was abducted by the Taliban, he faced physical assault and mental trauma. A day later, he was released but his team, a local producer and car driver, is still being held with the Taliban fighters. On Friday (August 5) evening, Anas was safely returned to his home in Islamabad, Pakistan. Later he opened up about his distressing experience of being held for 21 hours. He said, "The experience is yet to sink in to be very honest because I am still going through that mental trauma or the ordeal. Because it's still not over." Recalling the exact moment he was forcibly taken away, he said, "A moment back I was on the phone, I got a location to be at another place, to be with a colleague to have lunch...just in seconds, in a snap, everything changed. You are intercepted, the driver is out of the car, and your phones are taken away." ALSO READ | WION correspondent, who went missing in Afghanistan, is safe. Recalls his ordeal "It felt like a bad, bad dream to be very honest," Anas said as he told the world, what he went through in those 21 hours. Anas was allowed to walk free but the local producer and our driver are still being held by the Taliban. He said that he is still yet to fully get over the fact that this actually happened, the assault was this extreme. "I still have bruises on the back of my ear, on my back, on my hip, literally all over the body," he said. Anas is WION's reporter based out in Pakistan's capital. Anas has been reporting on Afghanistan developments for nearly five years for WION. he has done some exclusive, on-the-ground coverage when the Taliban took over Kabul last year. He had arrived in Kabul on Wednesday evening and the next morning, approached Afghanistan’s ministry of foreign affairs to get the due permission. He also had completed the necessary formalities. ALSO READ | 'Handcuffed, blindfolded and physically assaulted': What happened to WION's Anas Mallick in Kabul? Expressing his anger, Anas said that it's something you would never expect for an accredited journalist, for an international journalist for somebody who has been known to the Taliban as well. He said, "We were the only Indian network in Kabul at the time of the fall of Kabul. And we were there three months post-takeover. I was literally at all the press conferences, at all the press briefings and despite all of this, it happened so it was a very bad dream." In the past week, Anas also did extensive reporting on the United States' claims that Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a drone strike in Kabul. But what did exactly anger the Taliban? Why our correspondent was detained and beaten up? Shedding some light on that, Anas said that "this is more to do with the security fear for the Taliban of being shown or rather shown the side that they do not want to be projected." "When you go for accreditation, you are given a long lecture on don'ts and media ethics. In fact, I was given one such lecture yesterday as well during my interrogation I would say what are the ethics of media," he said. ALSO READ | Taliban abducted Anas Mallick: A 21-hour long trauma for the WION family After touching down in Islamabad on Friday, Anas revealed that he and his team were handcuffed, blindfolded and physically assaulted after being picked up by the Taliban. While speaking about his ordeal, he said, "I don't know the reason I was picked up, if was to do with any footage then that matter was actually cleared within seconds. But, this must to do with fear that they think that they will be exposed if there is truly a free press if there is truly free reportage." Anas reminded the world that as journalists, we have the responsibility, to tell the truth. We have always advocated at WION that we have to tell the story. He said, "In my seven years, this, unfortunately, this is the first time that it is me who is the story, and that is something that is truly tragic at least on a personal note." Anas recounted when he was leaving Kabul. he said he was "very emotional". "There was an Afghan family right next to me and they said we saw you on TV and we were reading about your reports that you were missing. I couldn't hold back my tears at that point in time," said Anas. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Still going through trauma, have bruises all over my body': WION's Anas Mallick tells his distressing tale

Almost 24 hours after WION correspondent Anas Mallick was released by the Taliban in Afghanistan, the rest of his crew, hired locally and abducted along with him, were released by the militant organisation on Saturday. They were kept in detention for nearly two days and bear wounds and bruises that show both were assaulted.

The crew members—Zakariya, who is the local producer and&nbsp;Mayel Kharoti, the driver—were released by the Taliban after a 42-hour ordeal.

The pictures that have come to the fore illustrate the cruelty which they were subjected to, a clear sign that Taliban 2.0&nbsp;is no different from the previous regime of the militant group.&nbsp;

The group was detained on Thursday while taking generic visuals of Kabul. Their assignment was to cover the Taliban takeover anniversary but it also came around the time of the killing of Ayman al Zawahiri, the al Qaeda terror group chief, in a US missile strike. Anas has also reported from near the house where he was killed.

The crew have been instructed by the Taliban authorities to be present when summoned in future.

These two Afghans were hired to help Anas with the coverage.

Since their abduction, WION had made all-out efforts seeking their release, which eventually succeeded.

But it appears that the Taliban are threatened by our ground reporting in Kabul as WION's reporter was abducted while he was reporting, with all the necessary permissions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-abducted-anas-mallick-a-21-hour-long-trauma-for-the-wion-family-504154" hreflang="en">Taliban abducted Anas Mallick: A 21-hour long trauma for the WION family</a>

On Friday, only Anas was allowed to walk free, whereas the local producer and the driver were kept in captivity by the Taliban. They had said that they will be releasing them soon. &nbsp;

Here's what exactly happened to him:&nbsp;

Anas says... 
&nbsp; 
"We were duly accredited, we had all the press credentials and were filming general visuals when we were intercepted, taken out of the car... dragged off the car to be very precise. Our phones were taken away.

And then we were physically assaulted. My crew was assaulted and I was assaulted as well.&nbsp;

After some while, we were shifted from the place where were intercepted to what we know is the intelligence unit of the Afghan-Taliban. We were handcuffed, blindfolded, and faced the wildest accusations and after that were questioned thoroughly on our journalistic credentials as well. Personal questions were also hurled at us."&nbsp;

Anas is WION's reporter based out in Pakistan's capital. Anas has been reporting on Afghanistan developments for nearly five years for WION. He has done some exclusive, on-the-ground coverage when the Taliban took over Kabul last year.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capture-of-wion-reporter-anas-mallick-by-taliban-how-world-media-covered-it-504129" hreflang="en">Capture of WION reporter Anas Mallick by Taliban: How world media covered it</a>

Expressing his anger, Anas said that it's something you would never expect for an accredited journalist, for an international journalist for somebody who has been known to the Taliban as well.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/same-old-radical-regressive-beliefs-is-this-the-taliban-20-the-world-was-promised-504147" hreflang="en">Same old radical beliefs, is this the Taliban 2.0 the world was promised?</a>

He said, "We were the only Indian network in Kabul at the time of the fall of Kabul. And we were there three months post-takeover. I was literally at all the press conferences, at all the press briefings and despite all of this, it happened so it was a very bad dream."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;WION correspondent Anas Mallick's associates released by the Taliban after 42 hours

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-correspondent-anas-mallicks-associates-released-by-the-taliban-after-42-hours-504258/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Almost 24 hours after WION correspondent Anas Mallick was released by the Taliban in Afghanistan, the rest of his crew, hired locally and abducted along with him, were released by the militant organisation on Saturday.

Almost 24 hours after WION correspondent Anas Mallick was released by the Taliban in Afghanistan, the rest of his crew, hired locally and abducted along with him, were released by the militant organisation on Saturday. They were kept in detention for nearly two days and bear wounds and bruises that show both were assaulted. The crew members—Zakariya, who is the local producer and Mayel Kharoti, the driver—were released by the Taliban after a 42-hour ordeal. The pictures that have come to the fore illustrate the cruelty which they were subjected to, a clear sign that Taliban 2.0 is no different from the previous regime of the militant group. The group was detained on Thursday while taking generic visuals of Kabul. Their assignment was to cover the Taliban takeover anniversary but it also came around the time of the killing of Ayman al Zawahiri, the al Qaeda terror group chief, in a US missile strike. Anas has also reported from near the house where he was killed. The crew have been instructed by the Taliban authorities to be present when summoned in future. These two Afghans were hired to help Anas with the coverage. Since their abduction, WION had made all-out efforts seeking their release, which eventually succeeded. But it appears that the Taliban are threatened by our ground reporting in Kabul as WION's reporter was abducted while he was reporting, with all the necessary permissions. Also read | Taliban abducted Anas Mallick: A 21-hour long trauma for the WION family On Friday, only Anas was allowed to walk free, whereas the local producer and the driver were kept in captivity by the Taliban. They had said that they will be releasing them soon. Here's what exactly happened to him: Anas says... "We were duly accredited, we had all the press credentials and were filming general visuals when we were intercepted, taken out of the car... dragged off the car to be very precise. Our phones were taken away. And then we were physically assaulted. My crew was assaulted and I was assaulted as well. After some while, we were shifted from the place where were intercepted to what we know is the intelligence unit of the Afghan-Taliban. We were handcuffed, blindfolded, and faced the wildest accusations and after that were questioned thoroughly on our journalistic credentials as well. Personal questions were also hurled at us." Anas is WION's reporter based out in Pakistan's capital. Anas has been reporting on Afghanistan developments for nearly five years for WION. He has done some exclusive, on-the-ground coverage when the Taliban took over Kabul last year. Also read | Capture of WION reporter Anas Mallick by Taliban: How world media covered it Expressing his anger, Anas said that it's something you would never expect for an accredited journalist, for an international journalist for somebody who has been known to the Taliban as well. Also read | Same old radical beliefs, is this the Taliban 2.0 the world was promised? He said, "We were the only Indian network in Kabul at the time of the fall of Kabul. And we were there three months post-takeover. I was literally at all the press conferences, at all the press briefings and despite all of this, it happened so it was a very bad dream." Watch | WION correspondent Anas Mallick's associates released by the Taliban after 42 hours

Anas Mallick abduction: Taliban assault WION reporter's crew before releasing them

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