One of Afghanistan's top religious figures has defended a series of religious decrees that observers warn could further erode women's rights in the country.
The eight-article fatwa was issued by a local ulema, or religious council, in the district of Deh Salah in the northern province of Baghlan last month.
Among the edicts was a ban on women leaving their homes without a male companion and another that banned the sale of cosmetics on the basis that they are "un-Islamic" and promote adultery. [Radio Free Europe] Read more
