Court hears challenge to religion article<\/p>\n
JAKARTA: The Constitutional Court began hearing on Friday a
\npetition challenging the constitutionality of an article of the
\nChild Protection Law that bans adults from teaching or promoting
\ntheir religion to children of different faiths.<\/p>\n
The request was filed by former priest Ruyandi Hutasoit, who
\nleads the Christian-based Prosperous Peace Party (PDS).<\/p>\n
His lawyers said that Article 86 of the law, which carries a
\nmaximum penalty of five years' imprisonment for offenders, should
\nbe declared unconstitutional and struck down.<\/p>\n
Ruyandi, they said, had brought the challenge in his capacity
\nas \"someone who provides religious education, disseminates
\nreligious teachings and holds public services in accordance with
\nthe precepts of his religion to both Christian and non-Christian
\nchildren\".<\/p>\n
He usually engaged in these activities in public areas, such
\nas churches, schools and other places that were voluntarily
\nattended by people of different religions.<\/p>\n
The case has been adjourned to allow the petitioner to amend
\nhis pleadings. --JP<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/court-hears-challenge-to-religion-article-1447893297",
"image": ""
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"sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
"sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com"
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