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80 Lashes for Young Men in Aceh for Kissing

8/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In Banda Aceh, Indonesia, an Islamic Shariah court has handed down a harsh sentence of 80 lashes to two young men, aged 20 and 21, for hugging and kissing. The trial was held behind closed doors, highlighting the strict enforcement of Shariah law in Aceh, which has seen five public canings for homosexuality since its implementation in 2015.

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Story summary

In Banda Aceh, Indonesia, an Islamic Shariah court has handed down a harsh sentence of 80 lashes to two young men, aged 20 and 21, for hugging and kissing. The trial was held behind closed doors, highlighting the strict enforcement of Shariah law in Aceh, which has seen five public canings for homosexuality since its implementation in 2015.