Makassar. Residents of Bulogading in Makassar, South Sulawesi, demonstrated in front of Makassar's legislative compound on Monday to protest against a questionable court ruling that may lead to their eviction.

The rally turned tense when dozens of protesters, mostly women and children, reached the second floor of the legislature building, where the inaugural ceremony for new council leaders was being held. The situation slowly calmed down, however, after several council members agreed to meet several protester representatives.

The residents said their rights had been violated by a ruling from the Makassar District Court. "There are seven people who own deeds issued by the State Land Agency in 2006 for the land, but their certificates were bested by one building using a deed owned by the plaintiff, which expired in 1980," said Sunardi Rauf, head of Bulogading People's Forum, before the council members.

Sunardi also said the judges ignored testimony from the head of the Makassar Land Agency, who backed the locals.

The ruling paves the way for the eviction of 75 families, around 220 people, who have lived in the area since 1920.

The residents also called for protection from the council members, particularly prior to the final and binding ruling. "We will still lodge an appeal, and we ask the council members to protect our rights before a binding ruling is issued," Sunardi said.

Council head Inche Adnan Mahmud, after listening to the people's claim, said it was strange the plaintiff's expired building certificate could overpower valid ownership certificates belonging to the people.

Inche said the DPRD would arrange a meeting with the Makassar District Court to seek clarification regarding the matter, and would ask the court to postpone the eviction until the final verdict was issued.