Jakarta police plan to limit protest sites draws backlash
The Jakarta Police’s plan to prohibit public protests at the Hotel Indonesia Hotel traffic circle has drawn strong opposition from students and activists, who have described the move as “unlawful” and warned that it could further restrict freedom of expression.
The Jakarta Police have proposed a ban on public protests at the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle, which has sparked significant dissent among students and activists. They view the restriction as "unlawful" and express concerns that it could further limit freedom of expression. The decision was made public by police spokesperson Sr. Comr.
Budi Hermanto on Tuesday, as thousands of university students were obstructed by six rows of police barricades along Jl. Sudirman, situated merely a kilometer away from the traffic circle. These barriers prevented over 200 students, primarily from the University of Indonesia, from reaching the traffic circle before the protest concluded late on Tuesday.
According to Budi, the traffic circle serves as the "core of gravity" for Jakarta, playing a pivotal role in the city's economy, international tourism, and public activities that include shopping centers and transportation hubs. He argued that holding protests at this location could disrupt the activities of others. However, the students and activists are vehemently opposing this move, emphasizing its potential to further restrict their right to express themselves.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
