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University of Indonesia Continues Sexual Harassment Probe, 13 Victims Already Questioned

From Tempo · (9m ago) Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The University of Indonesia (UI) is continuing its investigation into a sexual harassment case within its Faculty of Law, having questioned seven students and six lecturers.
  • A total of 16 suspected perpetrators are being summoned for questioning, with the university emphasizing a thorough, victim-centered approach.
  • The investigation, supported by an expert team, aims to complete within 79 days and will determine sanctions based on perpetrator actions and victim impact.

Tempo reports on the ongoing investigation into a serious sexual harassment case at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law, a development that has understandably caused significant concern within the academic community and beyond. The University's commitment to a thorough and victim-centered approach is crucial, especially given the number of reported victims and the complexity of gathering evidence in such sensitive cases.

The examination records show that seven students and six lecturers have been questioned by the task force and expert team.

— Erwin Agustian PanigoroUI spokesperson confirming the progress of the investigation.

The involvement of a dedicated task force and an expert team, comprising legal, psychological, and gender specialists, signals the seriousness with which UI is treating these allegations. The process of questioning 16 suspected perpetrators individually, alongside the examination of seven student victims and six lecturers, highlights the meticulous nature of the investigation. This detailed approach, while time-consuming, is essential for ensuring fairness and uncovering the truth.

From an Indonesian perspective, campus sexual violence remains a deeply troubling issue. While UI's proactive stance and transparent communication are commendable, the case also underscores the persistent challenges in addressing and preventing such incidents within educational institutions. The university's adherence to national regulations and its own internal policies in determining sanctions reflects a commitment to accountability.

The assessment of sanctions is not based solely on what the alleged perpetrators did, but also on the impact experienced by the victims.

— Erwin Agustian PanigoroUI spokesperson explaining the criteria for determining sanctions.

Tempo's reporting focuses on the procedural aspects of the investigation, providing a factual account of the steps being taken. The emphasis on victim support and the detailed examination process are key elements that resonate with the public's desire for justice and the protection of students. The university's goal to complete the investigation within the stipulated timeframe demonstrates a commitment to resolving the matter efficiently while maintaining due diligence.

The handling of these 16 individuals must be done one by one, making the process thorough and serious.

— Erwin Agustian PanigoroUI spokesperson on the individualized approach to questioning suspects.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.