The Panjshir Studies Centre has released the findings of its latest survey on the residents of Panjshir province in Afghanistan. According to the report, 90% of respondents believe the Taliban are “looting” the Panjshir mines. Locals claim they receive no benefits from the revenue generated by these resources.
The survey revealed that traders are extracting the Panjshir mines, and the revenue is handed over to the Taliban government. The report also states that the Taliban have issued work permits to 1,700 miners, charging 10,000 afghanis for each license. Currently, 550 miners are operating in Panjshir.
Additionally, the Taliban reportedly sold 43,000 carats of Panjshir emeralds in 32 auctions, earning 78 million afghanis. Miners in the province have alleged that the Taliban extort 2,000 afghanis from them every month. The Taliban are also accused of selling mining explosives “exclusively” at inflated prices.
The Panjshir Studies Centre conducted this survey over two months, interviewing 250 men and women. Participants were asked five key questions about the state of the province.
Lack of Development in Panjshir
The report highlights that 98% of respondents believe the Taliban government has not initiated any development projects in Panjshir. Only 2% expressed hope for the construction of a road linking Panjshir to Badakhshan. Meanwhile, 60% noted that minor projects, such as cleaning water canals, have been carried out by charities.
The survey further revealed widespread dissatisfaction with the Taliban’s governance. Ninety-seven participants stated they had not witnessed any “positive performance” from the group.
Meetings and Propaganda
The Panjshir Studies Centre’s report also sheds light on the Taliban’s propaganda activities in the province. Residents claimed that the Taliban frequently organize meetings under the guise of “supporting the emirate system.” The report states that no criticism of the government is allowed during these gatherings. Those who raise objections are allegedly threatened.
Over the past year, the Taliban’s governor in Panjshir, Mohammad Agha Hakim, has held 23 such meetings across various districts. These events are reportedly conducted at high costs, with speakers being instructed to praise the Taliban’s administration.
The report further alleges that the Taliban exploit students in schools. Students are reportedly forced to recite poems and songs in praise of the Taliban governor and the group’s government.
The Taliban have not yet issued a response to the survey’s findings.
