A representative of the Afghan Sikh and Hindu diaspora in the United Kingdom has expressed deep concern over recent remarks made by Khalid Hanafi, the Taliban’s Minister for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, labelling them as offensive and inflammatory.

Harbans Singh, speaking to Afghanistan International, condemned the minister’s statements, made just days before the Sikh and Hindu festival of Vaisakhi. Hanafi reportedly claimed that non-Muslims, including Hindus and Sikhs, are “worse than animals,” a comment that has drawn sharp criticism from religious minorities.

Singh stressed that no one has the right to insult another religion and warned that such rhetoric could further endanger the small number of Sikhs and Hindus who remain in Afghanistan. He added that these comments could compel many to leave the country altogether due to fears for their safety and religious freedom.

Hanafi, known for his hardline stance, plays a central role in enforcing the Taliban’s restrictive social decrees, particularly those targeting women. In a previous speech, he asserted that God has given Muslims a special status due to their commitment to promoting virtue and preventing vice.