A 45-year-old man in Afghanistan has drawn national outrage after allegedly marrying a six-year-old girl– his third wife– after she was exchanged for money by her parents.
According to Amu TV, the disturbing union caught the attention of the Taliban after a viral photo showed the man standing beside the visibly young girl, triggering public condemnation.
The wedding, which was scheduled to take place last Friday in Helmand Province, was halted after Taliban authorities intervened and arrested both the groom and the child’s father.
Although no formal charges were filed, reports indicate the Taliban have ordered the man to delay taking the girl home until she turns nine.
The case highlights a growing crisis in Afghanistan, where child marriages are on the rise.
According to UN Women, there has been a 25% spike in child marriages since the Taliban banned girls’ education in 2021.
Also, childbearing rates among young girls have surged by 45% nationwide.
Advocates warn that unless urgent action is taken, more girls will be exploited under the guise of cultural or financial exchange.
