Jakarta (ANTARA) – Deputy Chair of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) Commission X Kurniasih Mufidayati reminded that the state must be present to protect students and ensure campuses remain safe spaces, including from the threat of sexual violence.“This case is deeply concerning and must be handled seriously. Sexual violence on campus is a serious crime. The state must be present to protect students and ensure campuses become safe spaces for the entire academic community,” Mufidayati said on Friday.She made the statement in response to an alleged sexual violence case involving a female student at Manado State University. The case allegedly involved a lecturer, with the student reportedly suffering from depression and ultimately losing her life.According to her, the case has harmed the education sector and undermined students’ sense of safety within the campus environment.She stressed that higher education institutions should serve as safe and dignified spaces that uphold humanitarian values. Allegations of sexual violence, particularly when committed by individuals in positions of authority, constitute an abuse of power that cannot be justified under any circumstances.She highlighted that power imbalances between lecturers and students often place victims in vulnerable positions, making them reluctant to report incidents due to fear of academic or social repercussions.Therefore, efforts to prevent and address sexual violence on campus must go beyond symbolic or administrative measures and be implemented earnestly, with a clear focus on protecting victims.Mufidayati also emphasized the importance of concrete implementation of policies on preventing and handling sexual violence in higher education, including strengthening campus task forces to ensure they operate independently, professionally, and with full guarantees of victims’ confidentiality and safety.She further stressed that campuses must not conceal sexual violence cases under the pretext of protecting institutional reputation. Instead, she said, universities must side with victims and ensure they are able to continue their education at the same institution. Related news: No justification for sexual violence : Minister