The Taliban has introduced a sweeping new criminal procedure code in Afghanistan that critics say formalises discrimination against non-Muslims, removes legal safeguards, and recognises categories of “free” and “enslaved” people under the law. The move comes at a difficult time for Keir Starmer as the Labour government attempt to deport Afghan criminals from Britain. The new legal code could help criminals use human rights law to argue in court that deportation to Afghanistan would put them at risk. Human rights group Rawadari has described the reforms as “deeply concerning.” The code reportedly recognises only Hanafi Sunni Muslims as legitimate, labels others heretics, and allows execution for those defending beliefs deemed contrary to Islam. It also introduces a strict class hierarchy, with punishments varying depending on social status. Legal protections such as access to a defence lawyer and the right to remain silent have reportedly been removed. The code permits discretionary ...