PRIME NEWS POST 

The INDONESIAN, (BALI) – The controversy surrounding the construction of a hospital located right next to the sacred area of Pura Batur, Banjar Pipitan, Canggu Village, Badung Regency, is intensifying. Amidst strong criticism from the indigenous community and widespread opposition, the project activities are reportedly continuing as usual with no signs of halting.

Direct observation at the site showed workers active from morning until afternoon. Lights were even seen switched on on the second and third floors, reinforcing suspicions that construction is proceeding actively despite the public controversy.

This situation has raised serious questions from local residents, particularly regarding legality, transparency, and alleged violations of the sanctity norms of the temple area.

Sources from Banjar Pipitan stated that the hospital building disregards the aesthetic standards of the customary area and is considered disrespectful towards the temple as a sacred space.

Furthermore, the debate extends to the historical ownership status of Pura Batur, which is said to be jointly owned by three traditional neighborhoods (banjar): Banjar Umabuluh, Banjar Kayutulang, and Banjar Pipitan.

“If this temple truly belongs to all three banjar, why was a decision regarding such a massive development made unilaterally? Why was there no joint meeting? Where were the leaders of the three banjar?” said one source firmly.

Criticism also points to allegations of unilateral approval without the full involvement of the customary community (krama adat). Media attempts to contact Mangku I Nengah Sudarsana have been unsuccessful; reportedly, journalists’ phone numbers have even been blocked.

The dispute widened after the developer, represented by Dr. Ni Putu Grace Lande, stated that they had donated approximately IDR 50 million to Pura Batur and the surrounding banjar. However, this claim was immediately denied by several customary leaders.

The Customary Heads (Kelian Adat) of Banjar Kayutulang and Banjar Pipitan firmly stated they never received the funds as claimed. Similar statements were made by the treasurer of the temple committee, confirming no money had been received from the developer.

“If there really was a donation, who was it given to? This information must not mislead the public,” asserted one customary figure.

These statements suggest a discrepancy between the developer’s claims and the facts on the ground.
“If even the matter of donations lacks transparency, it is only natural for the public to question other aspects,” said another source.

Residents also expressed disappointment over what they perceive as unequal application of customary rules.
“In the past, residents were not allowed to build multi-story structures near the temple; many had to reduce their building size or retreat from certain areas. Why is it now possible to erect a four-story building here?” complained a local.

Alleged Violations
The controversy has brought forward several allegations of serious violations, including:

1. Violation of Customary Norms and Sanctity
The construction is deemed to ignore the concept of sacred radius and local Balinese wisdom.
2. Lack of Consultation with the Three Banjar
The decision was allegedly made without a joint deliberation involving all three communities historically linked to the temple.
3. Spatial and Aesthetic Incompatibility
The multi-story building is considered damaging to the visual harmony of the customary area.
4. Inconsistent Information Regarding Donations
The claim of a IDR 50 million donation is not acknowledged by the alleged recipients.
5. Lack of Transparency
Limited communication has led to public speculation.

Potential Legal and Customary Consequences
If the violations are proven, the project could face serious repercussions:

– Administrative sanctions or even termination if irregularities are found in building permits (PBG/SLF).
– Spatial planning review if it violates regulations for sacred areas.
– Customary sanctions based on village regulations (awig-awig).
– Potential criminal charges if elements of misinformation are discovered.

This case is no longer merely about physical construction but has touched upon matters of tradition, spirituality, and justice for the Balinese community.

There are growing demands for the Badung Regency Government, village officials, customary leaders, and relevant institutions to intervene immediately.

The community hopes the issue will be handled openly, objectively, and fairly to prevent it from escalating into broader social conflict in Canggu.(*)

Reported from various media sources //photo from Google documents // contribution by Prime News Post international online media // news.paper
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