A literature student at a university in Afghanistan was allegedly slapped by the Minister of Higher Education after an argument during a campus cleanliness campaign, eyewitnesses said.
The incident took place when students, along with their classmates, had launched a spring campus cleaning drive as part of a university initiative. Many students were wearing traditional Uzbek caps as part of the activity when the confrontation occurred.
Dispute During Campus Campaign
According to eyewitness accounts, the situation escalated after the minister, identified as Sheikh Nada, questioned the student over wearing the Uzbek-style cap. He allegedly asked the student who was paying him to wear the cap, suggesting political association with a group referred to as “Khalqi.”
The minister also reportedly questioned why the student was wearing a face mask. When the student removed the mask following instructions, the minister allegedly slapped him in front of others after a heated exchange.
Outrage and Reactions
The incident has triggered widespread criticism and concern over the conduct of senior education officials in academic environments. Witnesses said the confrontation quickly drew attention from other students present at the event.
The episode has sparked debate about student rights, university discipline, and the limits of authority within educational institutions, with many calling for clarification from the higher education authorities regarding the incident.
