Demand for Equal Pay in Deep South Regions
In a recent development, the Thai government has approved a compensation package of 10 million baht for the families of soldiers killed during the 2025 Thai-Cambodian border clashes [2][4]. This decision, however, has sparked a debate about equal compensation for victims in other conflict zones, particularly in the deep South of Thailand.
The concerns were raised by Pol Sgt Maj Worawit Narattana, a former EOD officer from Narathiwat, who lost both legs in a bomb attack while serving in the deep South [7]. In a Facebook post, he questioned why the sacrifices of military and police personnel in the South have been overlooked [8]. This renewed scrutiny has brought the issue to the forefront, with calls for equal compensation for families of fallen soldiers in the deep South [6].
The current compensation and reimbursement regulations for personnel in the deep South are set to be overhauled to reflect present-day realities [1]. The Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has acknowledged the validity of these concerns and has appealed for equal treatment for injuries and deaths [5].
At present, civilians killed or disabled in the deep South receive 8 million baht, with seriously injured individuals receiving 1 million baht and moderately injured individuals 500,000 baht [3]. This is in contrast to the 10 million baht compensation for families of soldiers killed in the Thai-Cambodian border conflict [2][4].
The government has publicly expressed condolences and expedited assistance for those impacted by the border conflict, including psychological and livelihood support [1]. However, there is ongoing discussion about whether victims in Southern Thailand should receive compensation equal to that for servicemen killed in the border clashes, emphasizing fairness across regions [3].
Relevant agencies have been tasked with reviewing the issue of compensation for personnel in the deep South [1]. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will address the concerns raised by Pol Sgt Maj Worawit and others, and whether equal compensation will be provided to families of fallen soldiers in the deep South.
Sources:
- The Nation
- Bangkok Post
- Khaosod English
- Thai PBS World
- The Phuket News
- Coconuts Bangkok
- The Diplomat
- The Straits Times
- The ongoing debate about equal compensation for victims in conflict zones, ignited by Pol Sgt Maj Worawit Narattana's concerns, extends beyond the Thai-Cambodian border conflicts and includes politics related to policy and legislation regarding war and conflicts, particularly in the deep South of Thailand.
- As the government reviews the compensation for personnel in the deep South, following a public outcry led by Pol Sgt Maj Worawit, the issue of fairness in news reporting and politics becomes crucial, with general news outlets keeping a close eye on the development of equal treatment for injuries and deaths in different conflict zones.
