A serious controversy has emerged around a girls' boarding school in Tlogosari village, Central Java, Indonesia. The educational institution has suspended operations following allegations of abuse against students.
According to the BBC, the 58-year-old school head, Kiyai Ashari, is suspected of sexually abusing dozens of girls. On May 2, hundreds of citizens gathered in front of the boarding school to protest, calling for the protection of women's rights with various slogans.
So far, one victim has officially filed a complaint. However, her legal representative, Ali Yusron, stated that the number of potential victims could range from 30 to 50.
Preliminary investigation data suggests the suspect entered the girls' rooms and performed inappropriate acts under various pretexts. These incidents reportedly occurred between 2020 and 2024. Law enforcement officials noted that similar accusations had been made against Ashari in the past, but in some cases, victims and their parents later withdrew their statements.
Experts and activists note that this incident highlights weak oversight in some boarding schools. Following the controversy, the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs revoked the school's license.
The institution is currently closed, and students have been returned home or placed in other schools. Investigations are ongoing.
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