According to credible sources, some of the Shi’a followers at the complex have been intimidated and harassed by local government officials who have urged them to convert to Sunni Islam if they want to return to their homes.
Source/Credit: Ahlul Bayt News Agency
By ABNA | December 3, 2012
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - At least 190 displaced Shi’a followers in East Java, including 69 women and 61 children, are at risk after local government authorities halted supplies of food and water to the community, citing a lack of funds.
The Shi’a community, from Karang Gayam village in the Sampang district on Madura island, were displaced in August 2012 when an anti-Shi’a mob of around 500 people attacked the community with sharp weapons and stones.
One person was martyred and dozens were injured. The mob also set fire to thirty-five houses belonging to the Shi’a community. Four people have since been charged for the attack.
Following the attack, the community was moved to temporary shelter at a sports complex in Sampang - with minimal facilities - where they have been living for the last three months.
No medicine or facilities specifically for children or women have been provided.
On 18 November, the local authorities cut off water supply to the complex and on 22 November they halted food supplies.
The displaced community have been forced to use their limited funds to purchase food and water.
According to credible sources, some of the Shi’a followers at the complex have been intimidated and harassed by local government officials who have urged them to convert to Sunni Islam if they want to return to their homes.
Local and national authorities continue to put pressure on the community to relocate but they have rejected this option, preferring to return to their homes and livelihoods under conditions of safety.
A group of volunteers have been assisting them with their daily needs and providing counselling, particularly to women and children.
Read original post here: Indonesian Authorities Cut Off Food and Water to Hundreds of Shia Muslims
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