Bangkok: The court has granted bail to Professor Emeritus Dr. Pirongrong Ramasoot, a member of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) for television, after sentencing him to 2 years in prison under Section 157. The bail was set at 120,000 baht, and a condition that prohibits him from leaving the country was imposed. The case arose after True filed a lawsuit against TrueID for issuing a warning letter related to the Must Carry rule, which mandates that television and digital TV operators must adhere to broadcasting regulations, including restrictions on inserted advertisements.
According to Thai News Agency, following the court's decision, Professor Emeritus Dr. Pirongrong was seen leaving the court at 11:30 a.m. He acknowledged the media presence with a bow, which was perceived as a gesture of appreciation and encouragement. However, he refrained from commenting on the NBTC's future role or addressing the allegations of insider lobbying within the NBTC aimed at persuading him to resign in exchange for the lawsuit withdrawal.
Despite the court's bail approval, Professor Pirongrong remains bound by the condition of not traveling abroad. He will now await the opportunity to appeal the court's decision as the legal proceedings continue.