Challenging The Principle of Equality Before the Law in Qanun Jinayat Aceh

Abstract

This article aims to explain how the principle of equality before the law in Aceh Qanun Number 6 of 2014 concerning the Jinayat Law is applied. As part of the Indonesian state, the application of Islamic law (especially in the jinayat) in Aceh should be in line with the characteristics of the rule of law, among which is the principle of equality before the law. Through the statute approach, it turns out that there is a disparity between the Qanun Jinayat Aceh and the regulations above, including the principle of equality before the law. Even though they have equaled men and women, the Qanun Jinayat Aceh clearly distinguishes people based on their religion. A person who is Muslim is obliged to submit to Qanun a quo while those who are not Muslim are in two choices: first, subject to Qanun because of the vacuum of national law; or second, choosing to submit to the Qanun because it is considered lighter than national law. This situation is discriminatory for Muslims on one hand, and unfair to non-Muslims on the other.