Jakarta. John Wempi Wetipo, a deputy for the home affairs minister, has sued Pondok Indah Hospital (RSPI) in Jakarta for falsely adding his name to the birth document of a baby born at the hospital, a spokesman said on Thursday.

The lawsuit seeks Rp 23 billion ($1.6 million) in damages from the hospital.

The lawsuit was registered with the South Jakarta District Court on April 28, court spokesman Djuyamto said.

“The opening hearing will be held on May 15, 2023, to be presided over by Judge Samuel Ginting," Djuyamto said.

John has claimed in the lawsuit that his reputation was damaged by the birth document, which was used by the baby’s mother to blackmail him, Djuyamto added.

“The plaintiff asks the panel of judges to repeal the document," he said. 

Local media identified the woman as Veronica Jennifer, who appeared on a social media platform confirming the legal issue with the official.

“I know Mr. John Wempi Wetipo very well, he is the deputy of home affairs minister,” she said in a video posted on TikTok.

“There is a problem between us. I should have sued him but what happens now is he’s suing me. That’s all I can tell.”

Veronica also claimed that she has evidence that John is the biological father of the newborn.