Afghanistan Peace CampaignLocal media reported Ismael Mashal had been distributing academic and other books on Kabul’s streets after tearing up his own diploma on live television in protest at a Taliban decision in December to ban female students from universities.
Abdul Haq Hammad, head of media monitoring at the Taliban information ministry, said Mashal had been arrested by security forces after gathering journalists, creating a crowd on the street and “creating propaganda against the government”.
Hammad said he had visited Mashal in detention and found he was being held in good conditions including heating, and had been able to contact his family.
It was not immediately clear whether Mashal would face formal charges or further punishment.
The international community has condemned Taliban restrictions on women, with some diplomats saying foreign capitals will not consider formally recognising the Taliban government unless it changes course.