Healing by forbidden: The case of Fidelis Ari Sudarwoto
Healing by forbidden: The case of Fidelis Ari Sudarwoto
The controversy about the medical use of cannabis in Indonesia
On August 2, 2017, Fidelis Ari Sudarwoto, an Indonesian citizen who was convicted of growing cannabis, received attention from West-Kalimantan's population. Fidelis had cultivated marijuana to help his woman suffering from the rare disease. This judgment raises important questions about the medical use of cannabis and the legal framework in Indonesia.
the case of Fidelis and the medical necessity
fidelis' woman suffered from syngomyelia, an illness in which cysts in the spinal cord affect the nervous system. Their symptoms resembled an uncontrollable fever disease that only affected one half of the body. Despite numerous stays in hospitals and trying to treat their health problems, the results remained unsatisfactory. In view of the medical helplessness, Fideli's alternative treatment methods turned and started internet research via cannabis as a possible therapy method.
the legal consequences
Fidelis was arrested on February 19, 2017 by the National Drug Authority (BNN) after cultivating 39 cannabis plants. He had previously asked for a permit for legal planting at the responsible authorities, but this was not approved. On August 2, 2017, he was sentenced to eight months in prison and a fine of one billion Rupiah, a judgment that was strictly than the original claims of the public prosecutor.
public interest and compassion for those affected
The process and the judgment against Fidelis have triggered a wave of public sympathy and discussion. Many people can understand how difficult it is to find a healing for seriously ill relatives. Fidelis' woman finally died on March 25, 2017, which was an additional emotional blow for him, but her fate ensured that the topic of cannabis received more attention as a medical means.
The role of cannabis in health care
The trap of Fidelis represents a larger debate about the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes in Indonesia and other countries. While many medical studies show the effectiveness of cannabis to relieve pain and treatment of certain diseases, the legal provisions in many regions remain strict in nature and prevent patients from benefiting from possible treatments.
conclusion: an appeal for change
The story of Fidelis Ari Sudarwoto is not only tragic, but also a call to check the existing drug policy in Indonesia. The social discussion about the medical use of cannabis could possibly lead to legal framework conditions that meet both the protection of the population and the needs of patients. A rethink in society and the legislators is necessary to ensure adequate medical care for everyone.
- Nag