Bangkok: People’s Party Members of Parliament have submitted a petition to the Children’s Affairs Committee, urging an investigation into allegations of child abuse by a nanny at a private shelter in Chiang Mai Province. The MPs are also calling for a probe into potential corruption involving the disbursement of funds to the foundation managing the shelter.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Parami Waijongcharoen, a People’s Party MP, along with Ms. Phuthita Chaianan and Ms. Petchrat Maichomphu, both MPs from Chiang Mai, submitted a formal letter to Ms. Phasarin Ramwong, spokesperson for the House of Representatives’ Committee on Children, Youth, Women, the Elderly, the Disabled, Ethnic Groups, and Gender Diversity. Their request seeks an inquiry into the distressing situation at the shelter.
Mr. Parami highlighted the release of disturbing clips showing children in distress, including images of abuse and injuries like sores from being forced to eat chili. He emphasized the need for systemic reform rather t
han isolated solutions and has already addressed the issue with Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security.
Ms. Petchrat described a 2023 incident where children from the shelter were hospitalized with bruises and breathing issues. The shelter delayed addressing these internal problems, leading to further unacceptable incidents, such as forcing children to eat chili. She called for an extensive investigation into allegations of financial corruption within the foundation.
Ms. Phuthita shared her meeting with the Chiang Mai Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office, revealing that the current children in the foundation differ from those in the 2023 incidents. The whereabouts of the original children remain unknown, and the case is under investigation.
Ms. Phasarin assured that the matter would be prioritized on the committee’s agenda for systematic reforms. She stressed the importance of a robust screening system for childcare providers and a safe environment in
childcare facilities. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security will be invited for clarification, with further agency discussions scheduled for December 19.