Indonesian Students Clash with Police Over Lawmaker Allowances

JAKARTA – Indonesian riot police fired tear gas at student protesters in Jakarta on Monday. Thousands demonstrated against lavish monthly allowances for parliament members. The clashes occurred near the heavily guarded Parliament compound.

Students hurled rocks and bottles at police lines. They attempted to breach security barriers surrounding the government building. Authorities had deployed over 1,200 security personnel to secure the area.

The protest was sparked by reports of a 50 million rupiah housing allowance for lawmakers. That amount equals roughly $3,075 per month. It has been in effect since September 2024.

Student Anger Over Lawmaker Benefits

Protesters view the allowances as profoundly unjust. They cite widespread economic hardship across Indonesia. The housing benefit alone is about 20 times the monthly minimum wage in poorer regions.

According to Reuters, police blocked several toll roads and streets. This caused severe traffic jams throughout the capital city. Protesters set fires under a flyover near the Parliament building.

There were no immediate reports of injuries. The demonstration remained largely contained to the area around the Parliament compound. The students are demanding the immediate abolition of the allowances.

Government Response to the Protests

House Speaker Puan Maharani addressed the controversy on Saturday. She told reporters the allowance amount was thoroughly considered. She said it was adjusted to current prices in Jakarta.

Corruption remains endemic in Indonesia. Activists often point to perceived widespread corruption within the police and Parliament. The country has a population of more than 280 million people.

The protest highlights growing public frustration with economic inequality. Many citizens feel their leaders are out of touch with daily struggles. The student-led demonstration signals strong opposition to the perceived misuse of public funds.

This clash underscores a deep-seated anger over political privileges. The Indonesian student protest reflects a broader demand for governmental accountability and economic justice. The situation remains tense in Jakarta.

Must Know (FAQ Section)

What sparked the student protests in Indonesia?

Students are protesting a monthly housing allowance for lawmakers. The allowance is worth 50 million rupiah, or about $3,075. They believe it is unjust amid widespread economic hardship.

How did the Indonesian police respond?

Riot police fired tear gas to disperse the crowds. They blocked streets leading to the Parliament building. Over 1,200 security personnel were deployed to secure the area.

What are the protesters demanding?

The demonstrators demand the abolition of the lavish allowances. They want lawmakers to revoke the housing benefit. They view it as a symbol of corruption and inequality.

Has there been any government response?

House Speaker Puan Maharani defended the allowance. She stated the amount was adjusted to Jakarta’s current prices. The government has not announced any changes to the policy.

Were there any casualties reported?

There were no immediate reports of injuries. The clash involved tear gas and thrown projectiles. The situation was contained near the Parliament compound.

Why is this allowance so controversial?

The monthly housing allowance is 20 times the minimum wage in poor regions. Many Indonesians struggle with economic challenges. The benefit is seen as excessive and tone-deaf.