We appreciate the swift action taken by security forces to crack down on perpetrators of intolerance in West Sumatra.
By: Laras Indah Sari )*
The swift response of security forces in taking firm action against perpetrators of intolerance in Padang deserves full appreciation. On Sunday, July 27, 2025, a prayer house that also served as an educational facility for Christian children in Padang Sarai Village, Koto Tangah District, Padang City, was attacked by a group of people.
A group of people vandalized property and forcibly dispersed a religious service taking place there, even in front of children. Such violence clearly constitutes a very serious violation of the public’s right to worship and religious freedom.
In response to this intolerance, the West Sumatra Regional Police acted swiftly to respond to public reports. Within a short time, the Padang Police apprehended several individuals suspected of involvement in the vandalism.
Not stopping at the operational level, the Deputy Chief of the West Sumatra Regional Police, Brigadier General Solihin, immediately went to the scene. The presence of this high-ranking police official served as a strong signal that the police institution will not tolerate any form of intolerance.
Brigadier General Solihin’s firm statement affirmed the police’s commitment to prosecuting perpetrators of intolerance according to applicable regulations. The police also ensured that the legal process would be conducted professionally and transparently.
These efforts are aimed at maintaining order and preventing social escalation due to provocation or misleading information. Such measures reflect a concrete form of protection for religious freedom in Indonesia.
The response from law enforcement officials offers hope to minority groups who have long been vulnerable to intolerance. The institutional commitment to enforcing the law fairly demonstrates the state’s presence when constitutional principles are threatened. This action not only restores order but also represents a crucial step in fostering a sense of security for citizens who have long felt marginalized by intolerant actions.
The Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI) considers the violence against the congregation of the Faithful Christian Church of Indonesia (GKSI) to be a form of deep-rooted intolerance. PGI Chairman, Reverend Jacky Manuputty, emphasized that acts of violence in front of children will leave long-term psychological impacts. He stated that the ongoing intolerance in various regions demonstrates a pattern of structured discrimination that cannot be taken lightly.
The Indonesian Communist Party (PGI) expressed its appreciation for the swift action taken by security forces in responding to the incident and apprehending the perpetrator. Jacky stated that the state’s role is to guarantee the constitutional rights of every citizen, including the right to practice religious beliefs, a non-negotiable mandate. According to the PGI, the state must not normalize violence in the name of majority beliefs, as Indonesia is founded on diversity, which is protected by the constitution.
He also appreciated the Padang City Government’s efforts to facilitate dialogue between parties and address the psychological impact on children who witnessed the violence. The Indonesian Communist Party (PGI) fully supports the legal process against the perpetrators of intolerance. This firm action is considered crucial to ensure the public’s awareness that intolerant acts are not only a violation of the law but also a threat to national values, the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity), and human rights.
Meanwhile, the SETARA Institute also strongly condemned the persecution of the GKSI congregation. Hendardi, Chairman of the SETARA National Council, stated that the incident was not merely a horizontal conflict, but a serious violation of freedom of religion and belief. He considered the mob’s actions in storming the prayer house not only intolerant but also a criminal act that violates Indonesian law.
SETARA emphasized the importance of legal proceedings against the perpetrators as a deterrent. Hendardi urged authorities not to simplify the incident as a misunderstanding, as the root causes are far more complex.
Everything from religious conservatism and low tolerance literacy to discriminatory local policies has exacerbated the atmosphere of intolerance in society. Therefore, the swift action of law enforcement officials in responding to the case in Padang must become the standard for handling all cases of intolerance in Indonesia.
The presence of high-ranking police officers at the scene demonstrates that the state will not remain silent when groups attempt to disrupt religious harmony. The commitment to enforcing the law professionally and fairly was evident in the initial steps taken by the authorities, who immediately arrested the perpetrators and conducted an in-depth investigation into the incident.
Law enforcement against cases of intolerance not only has legal implications but also sends a strong moral message that the rule of law remains strong. Repressive actions that undermine social harmony have no place in national life. People have the right to worship in peace without fear of intimidation or violence from any group.
The efforts made by the West Sumatra security forces in handling the incident of the destruction of a house of worship in Padang show that when the state is present in a concrete manner, a sense of justice and order can be upheld.
The police have carried out their constitutional duties responsibly and with a commitment to diversity. This step deserves high praise and sets a precedent that intolerance has no place in Indonesia.
)* Human Rights Consultant – Papua Civil Human Rights Forum
