Indonesian Military Joins Police in Securing Student Protest, Sparking Debate

Hundreds of Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel joined police in securing a student protest in Jakarta on June 12, 2026, an action that has sparked debate. The demonstration, titled 'Towards Bankrupt Indonesia,' saw military personnel forming barricades alongside police to block students' movement toward the Bundaran HI (HI Roundabout) protest area.

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It is a support to the National Police.

Brigadier General Muhammad Nas, Head of the TNI Information Center, confirmed the military's involvement was a support measure requested by the police, carried out according to established mechanisms. "It is a support to the National Police," he stated.

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Regarding demonstrations in business areas and traffic, there are regulations. No violations were committed by the security forces in relation to the blockade.

Government officials defended the joint security operation. Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai asserted that the measures, including the blockade, complied with regulations such as Jakarta Governor Regulation Number 232 of 2015, which governs public expression in public spaces. Pigai noted that demonstrations are restricted in business and traffic hubs like Bundaran HI, citing the Siracusa Principles, which allow authorities to impose restrictions for reasons like traffic congestion.

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According to the Siracusa human rights principles, demonstrations cannot be conducted at this point, only at other points with considerations such as traffic congestion or other strategic reasons.

However, Vice Chair of Commission I of the House of Representatives, Dave Laksono, acknowledged that while police are primarily responsible for demonstration security, the TNI's involvement can be necessary "to ensure public order is maintained." The deployment highlights ongoing discussions about the role of the military in managing domestic protests in Indonesia.

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To ensure public order is maintained.