Hard-line Muslims blocks access to churches in Java

An Indonesian law that has been on the books since 1969 that makes it all but impossible for Christians to open churches is in the news again. Recently in Bekasi W. Java Muslims hard-liners from the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI), blocked access to 2 churches.

The group claimed the churches did not a have permit, although the church authorities claim requests for a permit have continually been refused. I think you'll get a picture of how thinks work over here. We've got Pancasila and laws which give the right to follow your own religion etc. but in practice the local government in some areas won't allow places that aren't Muslim. The law states that residents wishing to build a new church must apply for a permit from the head of local administration and seek permission from local residents.

The 500 people denied access to the 2 churches decided to hold their service in the street outside. Lawyers representing Christians have asked the government to change the law but it has strong support in areas such as C. Java.