Support Minister Of Religion Yaqut Congratulations To The Baha'i Community, Komnas HAM: It's Legal, Can Be Done To Other Local Religions

Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) Beka Ulung Hapsara. (ANTARA/Special)

JAKARTA - Komnas HAM member Beka Ulung Hapsara said the congratulations on Naw-Ruz 178 EB which was conveyed by the Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to the Baha'i community was a form of state attention to all citizens.

"I think it's legal," said Beka when contacted in Jakarta, Antara, Thursday, July 29.

The actions taken by Minister Yaqut are good and can also be conveyed to other religions outside the six religions recognized by the government.

"I think it's a good thing and can be done not only to Baha'is but also to local religions," he said.

Beka explained that although the Baha'i religion has not been recognized by the Indonesian government, it is only administrative in nature. Meanwhile, the constitution in the country does not recognize official religion or not.

Therefore, what needs to be considered is referring to the substance that is in the constitution. This means that the state respects and protects all adherents of religions and beliefs.

"So the substance is there," he said.

Regarding the holiday greeting by the Minister of Religion, Komnas HAM has not seen any process of recognition by the government of the Baha'i community as a legitimate religion.

The attitude shown by the Minister of Religion is considered more as a form of respect for adherents of religions in Indonesia.

"So this is a form of respect for those who are rejoicing in celebrating the holiday," he said.

Finally, if there are parties who disagree with the actions of the Minister of Religion, Beka considers it reasonable. Moreover, Indonesia is a country that upholds democracy and human rights.

"We have to respect that, but the most important thing is how the state carries out its mandate according to the constitution," he said.