Bangkok: The government is resolving the land dispute, moving forward with verifying land rights on a plot-by-plot basis, separating villagers from investors. Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government prioritizes resolving the long-standing land dispute in Thap Lan, adhering to the principle of ensuring justice for the people while conserving natural resources, within the legal framework and based on factual information. The government also provides opportunities for all sectors to participate in determining solutions.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, revealed that all parties have jointly determined a solution, which includes: proceeding with a thorough, transparent, and verifiable verification of land ownership rights on a plot-by-plot basis; separating legitimate landowners and those who have illegally encroached on forest areas from capitalists or those who have illegally invaded the forest; and affirming that all steps will be based on the law and evidence to ensure fairness for those affected while simultaneously preserving the country's natural resources.
The deputy spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office stated that the meeting also emphasized that the actions taken to resolve the issues in the Thap Lan area are specific to that area, which has unique facts and historical contexts, and are not a guideline that can automatically be applied to other areas. It was also confirmed that legal action against those illegally encroaching on forest land will continue to be taken strictly according to the judicial process.
The government believes that resolving the Thap Lan land dispute requires striking a balance between protecting the rights of affected citizens and conserving the country's forests. This collaborative effort from all sectors is a crucial step towards mutual understanding and forms the foundation for sustainable natural resource management, enabling people to live with the forest under the rule of law, ensuring justice, and maximizing benefits for the nation.