Indonesian DPR members call for life sentences and restitution in sexual violence cases

Members of Indonesia’s House of Representatives have publicly demanded the harshest penalties for perpetrators of sexual crimes. DPR Commission III member Soedeson Tandra urged that the man accused of raping and killing a six‑year‑old girl in Tapanuli Selatan, North Sumatra, receive a life‑long prison term, stating, “Saya meminta agar pelaku dihukum seberat‑beratnya, bila perlu dijatuhkan hukuman maksimal atau seumur hidup.”

DPR Commission XIII member Meity Rahmatia condemned the assault of a university student in Makassar, calling for the maximum criminal sentence and mandatory restitution for the victim. She said, “Saya turut mengecam perbuatan yang tidak berperikemanusiaan… pelaku juga harus diwajibkan membayar restitusi kepada korban.” Both lawmakers emphasized zero tolerance and the need for swift justice.

The statements reflect growing political pressure in Indonesia to strengthen legal responses to sexual violence and to provide compensation for victims.