UI Opens Possibility of Taking FH Student Harassment Case to Legal Realm

Universitas Indonesia (UI) has acknowledged that it is investigating a report of alleged verbal sexual harassment involving several students within the Faculty of Law (FH). UI’s Director of Public Relations, Media, Government, and International Affairs, Erwin Agustian Panigoro, stated that the institution is delving into the alleged violations of the university’s core values, the academic community’s code of ethics, and applicable laws and regulations. “The handling process is underway through UI’s Task Force for the Prevention and Handling of Sexual Violence (Satgas PPKS) with a victim-centered approach, upholding principles of justice, confidentiality, and caution,” he said in a written statement on Tuesday (14/4). Erwin explained that the investigation process involving Satgas PPKS includes verifying reports, summoning parties, gathering evidence, and coordinating with relevant units at the faculty and university levels. Additionally, he noted that UI’s Faculty of Law, responsible for the 16 suspected perpetrators, has conducted an initial investigation involving tracing and summoning the allegedly involved students. Furthermore, Erwin said that the FH UI Student Representative Council has revoked active membership status for several suspected perpetrators, as outlined in Decree Number 007/SK/BPMFHUI/IV/2026. “This step is part of the initial response at the student organization level,” he stated. Erwin emphasised that if violations are proven from the investigation results, UI will not hesitate to impose academic sanctions up to dismissal as a student. “It does not rule out further coordination with law enforcement authorities if criminal elements are found. UI ensures that the entire handling process is carried out professionally, independently, and free from intervention or conflicts of interest,” he asserted. On the other hand, he mentioned that UI has also provided support for the affected victims, covering psychological, legal, and academic aspects to ensure comprehensive recovery and full protection of the victim’s identity confidentiality. “During this handling process, UI invites all parties to act wisely by not disseminating unverified information and to respect the ongoing handling process to maintain the integrity of the process and protect all involved parties,” he said. The alleged harassment case originated from the circulation of a screenshot of a group chat containing lewd conversations allegedly from FH UI students. In the group, they referenced other female students. According to the Instagram account of FH UI (@fakultashukumui), the faculty has received reports regarding the group chat and strongly condemns the actions.