Bangkok: Civil society groups have taken a significant step in advocating for citizens affected by government land and forestry policies by submitting a draft bill to the Parliament. The bill seeks to grant amnesty to those prosecuted due to overlapping residence or cultivation on forest or state land.

According to Thai News Agency, Police Major General Wichai Sangprapai, advisor to the President of the Parliament, received the draft Amnesty Act along with 12,706 supporting signatures. The proposal was presented by Mr. Chamnong Noophan and representatives advocating for the amnesty. The draft law aims to assist citizens who have been prosecuted for utilizing land that was later designated as state property, focusing on three main points of amnesty, exoneration, and restoration of rights.

The draft bill, aimed at erasing criminal offenses and restoring the legal records and rights of affected citizens, was previously presented to the House of Representatives but was dropped due to the dissolution of the House under Article 147 of the Constitution. With renewed efforts, civil society groups are urging political parties to support the re-submission and enactment of the bill to alleviate public suffering.

Police Major General Wichai assured that the Speaker of Parliament, who has shown interest in the issue, will be informed. He emphasized that all actions must adhere to legal standards and confirmed that relevant agencies would be engaged in the process.