Jakarta
10 June 2008
International and local rights groups condemned the restrictions imposed by the Indonesian government on a Muslim sect, saying the move restricts religious freedom. VOA's Nancy-Amelia Collins has more from Jakarta.
Last week, after Indonesian President Suslio Bambang Yudhoyono condemned the violence against the rally for religious tolerance, the police arrested more than 50 front members.But the alleged leader of the attack, Munarman, evaded arrest and has issued a video from his hideout saying he will not surrender until the government bans Ahmadiyah.
Monday, several thousands Islamic Defenders Front members, wearing white Islamic robes and skullcaps, protested outside the presidential palace, demanding the government ban Ahmadiyah.
Critics say President Yudhoyono may have allowed the restrictions against Ahmadiyah, as a compromise to appease the small-but-vocal minority hardliners while trying to preserve the country's image as a tolerant nation.
Tuesday, Human Rights Watch issued a statement calling on the government to protect religious minorities in the country and reverse the decree against Ahmadiyah.
Indonesia has the world's largest Muslim population, with the vast majority practicing a moderate form of the faith.