Original poster is right by all accounts, of course. Now, let's come up with exotic significant indentations.
function xyz(a, b):
| var x = 2
| if true:
| | do_something()
| else:
| | do_something_else()
| anyway()
Pro: Your editor no longer needs to implement indentation hints.
Con: Looks obstructive if not highlighted like an indentation hint.
Your turn.