The cabinet has approved a public gathering draft bill proposed by the Royal Thai Police, aiming to strictly curb public assemblies.
Maj Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd, deputy government spokesman, said yesterday the cabinet approved the public gathering bill and will forward it to the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) for approval.
Maj Gen Sansern said the bill indicates that assembly organisers have to clearly notify a local police station chief at least 24 hours in advance about the gathering's details including attendee numbers, time and place.
Organisers who violate the law or whose gatherings involve violence will be sentenced from two to 10 years in jail and fined 40,000 to 200,000 baht. People who join a gathering could face up to one year in jail or be fined up to 20,000 baht if they refuse to leave the venue.
Organisers who inform officials less than 24 hours prior to a gathering will face up to six months in jail or a fine of 10,000 baht.
In addition, Government House, official places and public transportation areas are off-limits for gatherings. Setting up stages from 10pm to 6am is also prohibited.