Khadija Ahmadzada, a young Afghan taekwondo coach, has been released after spending thirteen days in detention following her arrest for allegedly failing to wear the hijab “correctly,” playing music, and allowing both men and women to exercise together in her gym.
According to BBC reports, a spokesperson for Afghanistan’s Supreme Court, currently under Taliban control, confirmed Khadija’s release. However, her current whereabouts remain unknown.
Khadija, who lives near the western city of Herat, was detained after Afghanistan’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice received reports that she had violated the strict regulations imposed on women’s sports and gym facilities. A ministry spokesperson told the BBC, “She was arrested for breaking the rules governing women’s exercise centres. She had previously been warned several times.”
Her arrest has sparked widespread criticism on social media, drawing attention to the severe restrictions Afghan women face under Taliban rule. The United Nations’ Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, publicly demanded her immediate release, highlighting the international concern surrounding her case.
Since the Taliban regained power in 2021, women’s sports centres and gyms have largely been closed. Authorities initially stated these facilities would reopen once a “safe environment” for women could be guaranteed. However, as of January 2026, no such centres have reopened, preventing Afghan women from participating in organised sports.
Khadija’s case was brought before Afghanistan’s Supreme Court, which ruled in her favour last Thursday, ordering her release. Despite this, the broader challenges faced by female athletes in Afghanistan remain unaddressed. Her arrest and subsequent detention underline the ongoing struggle for women to engage in physical exercise freely and safely in the country.
The following table summarises key details of the case:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Khadija Ahmadzada |
| Age | Approximately mid-20s |
| Location | Near Herat, Afghanistan |
| Alleged Violations | Improper hijab, mixed-gender exercise, playing music |
| Detention Period | 13 days |
| Court Outcome | Released by Supreme Court |
| Social Reaction | Widespread criticism on social media, UN intervention |
Khadija’s release has been welcomed by human rights advocates, but the broader restrictions on Afghan women’s participation in sport remain in place. Observers warn that until gyms and sports centres are reopened, Afghan women will continue to face severe limitations on their physical and personal freedoms.