Taliban militants (file photo)

Amu: Since assuming power in August 2021, the Taliban have made land confiscation a cornerstone of their governance, frequently reclaiming property they deem to belong to the state. While the Taliban defends the policy as a measure to restore order, it has faced criticism from individuals who claim rightful ownership of the seized lands and from local residents who view the actions as heavy-handed. The Sherpur neighborhood, a coveted area in Kabul, has long been a site of contention. Once a green zone, it has seen a surge in upscale development over the years, including luxury homes and government buildings, often at the expense of city planning regulations. Click here to read more (external link).