Commission XIII Leader: Pati Case Not Just an Ordinary Crime

JAKARTA - Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Commission XIII, Sugiat Santoso, has emphasised that the sexual violence case occurring at a pesantren in Pati Regency, Central Java, is not merely an ordinary criminal act. He firmly stated that the sexual violence in question constitutes a violation of human rights (HAM). “The pesantren leader’s case is not just an ordinary crime. That heinous act has entered the realm of serious human rights violations,” Sugiat said when contacted on Wednesday (6/5/2026). State intervention in this case, according to Sugiat, is crucial to ensure the victim receives protection and justice. “Without active involvement from state institutions, the victim will remain in a vulnerable position. The LPSK must immediately coordinate with law enforcement authorities so that the judicial process truly favours the victim,” Sugiat stated. He reminded that the Witness and Victim Protection Law (UU PSDK), recently enacted by the DPR, provides a strong basis for the LPSK to act swiftly. “Based on the mandate of the UU PSDK, the LPSK must facilitate restitution and compensation for the victim as well as ensure long-term social rehabilitation,” Sugiat said. “The state must truly be present to provide a sense of justice for the victims,” he added. Police have stated that they have gathered sufficient preliminary evidence after examining witnesses and conducting scene processing. Pati Police Chief, Kombes Pol Jaka Wahyudi, mentioned that a kiai named Ashari was named as a suspect on 28 April 2026 following a case review. Police explained that the handling process after the 2024 report was initially delayed due to attempts at familial settlement by the victim’s side.