DPR Commission X Urges Strict Sanctions If UGM Student WhatsApp Group Found Involved in Lewd Content

Commission X of the DPR has highlighted the case involving lewd conversations within a WhatsApp group of students from the Faculty of Engineering at Gadjah Mada University (FT UGM). The Vice Chairman of Commission X, Lalu Hadrian, stated that the case must be handled with utmost seriousness.

“We view these allegations as a serious issue, but as they are currently just allegations, they must be investigated objectively while ensuring the rights of both the victims and the accused are protected,” Lalu told reporters on Wednesday (30/09/2026).

Lalu noted that the government and universities should not only take action when a case goes viral. He also called for strict sanctions if the allegations are proven true.

“If, after investigation, violence or harassment is proven to have occurred, sanctions must be applied firmly and proportionally. For students, the severe sanction regulated is permanent dismissal from the university,” he said.

Lalu urged universities to remain consistent in enforcing regulations. He also requested that campuses ensure protection for victims.

“What we are pushing for is that the university consistently implements rules, strengthens Task Forces, ensures reporting channels are secure, and provides protection to victims so that similar cases do not recur,” he added.

FT UGM previously provided an update regarding the circulation of conversations among students in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (DTETI) that involved sexual harassment towards female students. Ten students are allegedly involved in the matter.

“I have met directly with the suspected student perpetrators. There were 10 individuals yesterday, and we are continuing to investigate other students who may be involved. All of them are from the 2024 cohort,” said the Dean of FT UGM, Prof. Ir. Selo, via a short message.

Selo emphasised that the faculty will suspend all suspected perpetrators from all academic activities. He added that FT UGM will continue to oversee the investigation process alongside the UGM Task Force for the Prevention and Handling of Sexual Violence (PPKS).

Selo expressed hope that the investigation process would be conducted and completed properly. He also ensured that protection for the victims would be maintained throughout the process.

“The goal is, of course, to ensure that during the investigation, the campus atmosphere can return to being comfortable, protecting the victims and maintaining the integrity of the investigation,” he concluded.