Sumedang Vice Regent faces allegations of sexual violence and intimidation

Allegations of sexual violence and physical assault involving the Sumedang Vice Regent and his personal secretary, RY, have triggered significant political and legal reactions in West Java. Activists have raised concerns regarding bureaucratic intimidation, reporting that RY faced threats of being transferred to a remote district in Surian following the controversy.

Legal and political entities are responding to the escalating situation. Twenty-two branches of the Indonesian Advocates Association (Peradi) across West Java have pledged to monitor the case to ensure the principle of ‘equality before the law’ is upheld, expressing concern over potential interference in the judicial process.

Additionally, the PDI Perjuangan faction of the Sumedang Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has issued a formal statement supporting a transparent and accountable legal process. The faction emphasized the importance of the presumption of innocence while ensuring the rights and protection of the alleged victim are prioritized. They have also offered legal assistance through their legal and human rights division.