Riot police fired tear gas at thousands of students protesting in Indonesia’s capital on Monday.
Protesters attempted to march toward Parliament to oppose lawmakers’ housing allowances.
Students hurled rocks and bottles at officers and lit fires beneath a flyover near the compound.
Authorities blocked roads leading to Parliament, including toll routes, sparking massive traffic congestion.
Officials deployed more than 1,200 security personnel to secure the heavily guarded building.
No injuries were reported during the violent confrontation.
Anger Over Lawmakers’ Housing Benefits
Demonstrators condemned reports that 580 legislators have received 50 million rupiah (€2,637) monthly housing allowances since September 2024.
They argued the benefit is unfair while millions of Indonesians endure economic hardship.
Protesters demanded Parliament abolish what they consider extravagant perks beyond lawmakers’ salaries.
The housing allowance equals nearly 20 times the minimum monthly wage in poorer regions.
Leaders Defend Payments Amid Corruption Concerns
House Speaker Puan Maharani defended the payments, claiming officials adjusted them to Jakarta’s current living costs.
Activists accused lawmakers and police of widespread corruption in the nation of more than 280 million citizens.
Critics argue the allowances reinforce public distrust in government institutions plagued by corruption scandals.
Demonstrators vowed to continue pressuring Parliament until officials revoke the controversial benefits.
