Thousands of students marched toward Indonesia’s Parliament in Jakarta on Monday to protest lavish allowances.
Authorities blocked streets and several toll roads, causing massive traffic jams across the city.
Riot police fired tear gas at protesters as they tried to reach the Parliament compound.
Demonstrators retaliated by throwing rocks and bottles and setting fires under a nearby flyover.
Security forces deployed more than 1,200 personnel to guard the heavily protected Parliament building.
Public Outrage Over Extravagant Benefits
Reports revealed 580 lawmakers have received a housing allowance of 50 million rupiah (€2,637) per month since September 2024.
Protesters called the allowance unfair while most citizens struggle with economic hardships.
The housing benefit equals roughly 20 times the monthly minimum wage in poorer regions.
Demonstrators demanded the government abolish these allowances, which add to lawmakers’ regular salaries.
House Speaker Puan Maharani defended the allowance, stating officials calculated it based on current Jakarta prices.
Corruption Fuels Tensions
Activists claim corruption runs deep in Indonesia and allege police and lawmakers are widely corrupt.
They argue citizens face inequality while officials enjoy inflated privileges.
Authorities reported no immediate injuries during Monday’s unrest, though tensions remain high near Parliament.
Protesters vowed to continue pressuring lawmakers until they address public anger over these benefits.
The demonstrations highlight widespread frustration over wealth disparities in a nation of over 280 million people.
