House Member: Allegations of Unhan Students Assaulting SR Students Must Be Taken Seriously

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Dave Laksono, has urged that allegations of violence committed by students of the Defense University (Unhan) against three students of Sekolah Rakyat (SR) be taken seriously.

"In my view, the allegations of violence against the three Sekolah Rakyat students in Jember involving students from the Defense University must be addressed seriously," Dave told Kompas.com on Friday (23/10/2026).

According to reports he has received, the incident began when one student was caught smoking in the dormitory, and two other students allegedly became victims after trying to defend their friend.

In response, Dave emphasized that disciplinary violations should indeed be addressed, but they cannot justify the use of violence.

"Disciplinary measures must still respect the rights and dignity of children," he said.

Dave also reminded that the legal process should be conducted objectively to uncover the chronology of events and determine who is responsible.

Additionally, he advocates for prioritizing protection for the victims, including their physical and psychological recovery.

"All parties must respect the ongoing process and not jump to conclusions about responsibility for those involved," he added.

Need for Evaluation of Unhan Cadet Service Program at SR

He believes this incident should prompt an evaluation by the Defense University and the Ministry of Social Affairs, particularly regarding the implementation of the cadet service program at Sekolah Rakyat (SR).

Preparation prior to assignments should include an approach to mentoring that suits children's ages, emotion control, conflict resolution, and understanding the limits of permissible actions.

"Clarity of duties, guidance, and supervision during assignments are also important to ensure that any disciplinary issues are handled appropriately and proportionately," he stated.

Dave asserted that discipline should be fostered through exemplary behavior, dialogue, and consistent rule enforcement, not through violence.

If violations are substantiated, handling should comply with applicable regulations.

"Evaluations must not stop with the investigation of the case but should yield tangible improvements in preparation, guidance, and supervision so that the cadet service program achieves its goals and ensures the safety and rights of students," said the Golkar Party politician.

Victim's Account of Assault by Unhan Students

Three Sekolah Rakyat students in Pancakarya Village, Ajung District, Jember Regency, East Java, are alleged to have been assaulted by Unhan students in the dormitory on Sunday (18/10/2026) night.