India, May 12 -- In a move that has sparked international criticism but little surprise, the Taliban has officially suspended the sport of chess in Afghanistan, citing concerns over gambling and religious alignment. The suspension, announced by the country's Sports Directorate, will remain in place until religious scholars determine whether the game is compatible with Islamic principles.

"Chess in sharia (Islamic law) is considered a means of gambling", which is prohibited according to the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice law announced last year, sports directorate spokesperson Atal Mashwani told AFP. "There are religious considerations regarding the sport of chess. Until these considerations are addressed, the sport of chess...