Bangkok: The House of Representatives has approved a draft law concerning compensation for victims and defendants in criminal cases. This legislation aims to broaden the rights of suspects and defendants by extending the application deadline to two years and introducing an online application channel, with plans for the law to be implemented within 120 days.

According to Thai News Agency, the House of Representatives’ recent meeting focused on the draft Act on Compensation for Victims and Defendants in Criminal Cases, which has been thoroughly reviewed by a Special Committee. Mr. Khachit Chainikhom, Chairman of the Special Committee, highlighted that the existing law, which has been effective since 2001 and amended in 2016, needed revisions to address current circumstances. The committee conducted a public hearing, revealing that 97.90 percent of respondents supported the initiative, recognizing the importance of providing assistance to victims, suspects, and defendants. The proposed changes include increased assistance for suspects, expanded support for defendants, the extension of the application period from one to two years, the introduction of electronic assistance channels, and the protection of compensation funds from enforcement actions.

During the meeting, members discussed various aspects of the proposal, emphasizing the significance of promptly enacting the law within 60 days instead of the proposed 120 days. This urgency is to ensure quick assistance and uphold the rule of law, maintaining the principle that individuals are innocent until proven guilty. The law is expected to enhance social order and justice, ensuring continuous and effective support from government officials to those wronged. The House voted in favor of the law in its third reading, with 316 votes supporting, none opposing, and one abstention.