Bangkok: Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, reiterated the prohibition of physical harm and improper use of conscripts, such as using them to wash underwear, during his recent visit to the Signal Regiment at the Royal Thai Army Headquarters. He emphasized that conscripts should be treated like the commanders' own children, and any incidents of abuse should be met with strict punishment from the unit commanders.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham visited the civil servant gathering area to inspect the selection process for military conscripts. He communicated the government's ongoing military reform policy, which includes reducing the number of conscripted soldiers due to decreased demand. This reduction aims to create more efficient combat personnel to address new challenges while ensuring national security.
Mr. Phumtham stated that he had engaged in discussions with all commanders of the armed forces to address and prevent violence against conscripts. The commanders agreed to implement stricter preventive measures, such as enhanced training and monitoring through CCTV cameras. They also committed to punishing cases of abuse without favoritism.
In his remarks, Mr. Phumtham assured parents that the training of conscripts would be conducted with care and respect. He emphasized the importance of treating conscripts as family, highlighting ongoing efforts to instill this mindset among trainers.
Additionally, Mr. Phumtham discussed the development of voluntary military service, focusing on public relations and vocational training. Collaborating with educational institutions like Chulalongkorn University, the government aims to offer career development opportunities for conscripts. These initiatives include training for roles such as security guards, which are currently dominated by workers from neighboring countries. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed to facilitate the recruitment of conscripts into civil service roles in Bangkok.
Lt. Col. Dangjai Suwannakitti, deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense, reported that during Mr. Phumtham's inspection, 408 individuals were called for the draft, with 205 deferred and 203 inspected. Of those, 43 were required by the area, and 13 volunteered, resulting in 109 individuals entering the conscription process. Mr. Phumtham also personally delivered Form Sor Dor 43 to some volunteers participating in this year's military draft.