Two Women Charged over Viral Quran Video in Indonesia

Indonesian police have arrested two women in Banten province on blasphemy charges after a video showing one of them stepping on a Quran went viral, sparking widespread public outrage.

According to authorities, the incident took place on 8 April in Lebak, where a salon owner accused a customer of theft. After the accusation was denied, the owner allegedly demanded the woman prove her innocence by stepping on the holy book, while filming the act. Both individuals have since admitted their involvement and could face up to five years in prison under Indonesia’s blasphemy laws.

The video quickly spread across social media, triggering strong reactions in Indonesia, which has the world’s largest Muslim population. Public anger intensified pressure on law enforcement to respond swiftly, leading to the arrests.

The case has reignited debate over Indonesia’s controversial blasphemy legislation, which prohibits actions deemed insulting to any of the country’s officially recognised religions. Critics, including human rights groups, argue the law is often used to target minorities and suppress freedom of expression.

High-profile cases in recent years, such as the conviction of former Jakarta governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, have drawn international attention and criticism of the law’s application.

The latest incident highlights the ongoing tension in Indonesia between protecting religious sensitivities and upholding individual rights, with calls likely to grow for reforms to the country’s blasphemy framework.

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