BANDA ACEH: Two men in Indonesia’s Aceh province were publicly caned Thursday for engaging in same-sex relations. A Shariah court found them guilty under Islamic law. The punishment took place in Banda Aceh’s Bustanussalatin city park. Dozens of onlookers gathered to witness the caning. Aceh is the only Indonesian province enforcing Shariah law since its implementation in 2006.
Harsh Sentences
The convicted men, aged 24 and 18, received dozens of lashes from five enforcers in robes and hoods. The men were initially sentenced to 85 and 80 strokes, but after time served in prison, they received 82 and 77 lashes. They were given breaks after 20 strokes to drink water and have wounds treated. One of the men was too weak to move after the final lash.
Arrest and Trial
Authorities arrested the two men in November. Residents suspected them of being gay and forcibly entered their rented room. The men were found naked and embracing before being taken to Sharia police. A religious court sentenced them on Monday. Two others received 34 and 8 lashes for gambling.
Islamic Law in Aceh
Aceh gained the right to implement Shariah law in 2006 as part of a peace deal to end separatist conflict. The region enforces strict Islamic laws on both Muslims and non-Muslims. In 2015, the law expanded to punish moral offenses, including same-sex relations and sex outside marriage. Up to 100 lashes can be given for these offenses.
Wider Implications
Aceh also punishes drinking alcohol, gambling, and men skipping Friday prayers. Women wearing tight clothing can also face caning. Human rights groups criticize these laws as violating international agreements. Indonesia’s national criminal code does not criminalize homosexuality. However, the central government cannot override Aceh’s Shariah laws.
Criticism and Response
Human rights organizations argue the laws infringe on the rights of minorities. They highlight the international treaties Indonesia has signed. The Indonesian government pressured Aceh to remove a proposed law allowing stoning for adultery. Despite criticism, public canings continue in the province.
