Re: "Magazine sued for 'blasphemous' kings painting", (BP, March 31).
Chiang Mai governor Pawin Chamniprasat said that the Three Kings Monument is "very sacred", but other than in obligatory state-sponsored rituals, older Lanna folk may not choose to propitiate this site in preference to others. Designed by a Bangkok-based artist and inaugurated in 1970, the monument represents a Bangkok version of Lanna history. King Ramkhamhaeng is depicted on the auspicious north side in accordance with his perceived senior status, his right hand gesturing as if in authority.
The apparel of the three kings portray them as akin to Devas before whom others might become mere specks of dust, probably of less than 2.5 microns given how many float around the city these days. Like many of the city's residents, were the kings alive, they might appreciate having masks.
Kuntree Bumkhin
Tarnished image
In the blasphemy case, the Chiang Mai governor is quoted as saying, it "may affect Chiang Mai's image and tourism, causing the city economic instability". Governor, you are the biggest detriment to your perceived economic instability. Tourists are not interested one way or another in your local, imaginary squabble. But they will cease coming to Chiang Mai if they have to choke on the locally polluted air while there.
Sereleh
Streisand effect
On top of this blasphemy case, the governor has just added another: Putting an unfavourable spotlight on Chiang Mai and giving the impression to the world that Thailand is an unfriendly place to visit.
What the magazine and the student were trying to do has absolutely nothing to do with national politics, and everything to do with wanting fresh air in Chiang Mai for its people and visitors. Do not mix the two.
They no longer want to suffer the yearly crop burning to clear land for plantations and grow mushrooms. To the disappointment of many people, as a result of the governor's complaint, they have had to cancel the rally.
Ultimately, this annual haze problem falls under the responsibility of the governor and the local authorities. Deal with the culprits. Convince and work with locals to find alternative means of generating cash crops. The authorities have promised to tackle it. So far, this year is no different from last. The very least the governor can do is withdraw the complaint.
Edward Kitlertsirivatana
Slap on the wrist
Re: "DSI seeks Secret Victoria's Secret indictment", (BP, April 1).
So the owner of Thanthip massage was sentenced to 19 years and six months (applause) and drum roll ... a fine of 10,000 baht, while the job recruiting firm Imperial Dragon was fined 30,000 baht! One would laugh if it were not so tragic. Why aren't the fine amounts updated? What kind of deterrent is that to people who indulge in human trafficking and abuse undocumented workers?
On the other hand, as Sanitsuda Ekachai discussed in her March 29 column about the use of pesticides that, each year, slowly poison each and every one of us, the powers-that-be are more interested in kowtowing to the powerful chemical industry than protecting people's health.
The same goes for Bangkok's smog, as we are told that things will improve in 10 years once electric cars start replacing diesel- and gas-powered engines. So much for fairness, progress and happiness.
Sagittarius
A poor reception
For several weeks a homeless female has been living on the sidewalk outside our condominium on Chidlom Road. The property manager sent the following message to me.
"Please be informed that the management, especially myself, have been trying to solve this problem. We have contacted every related department, for example, Lumpini police station, the Lumpini district office, the social assistance centre and even the Office of the Prime Minister. Unfortunately, none of them will take action. The police have come more than five times but refuse to take her. But we still keep trying to find a solution."
Someone is supplying her with food and water as her area has become quite messy, with empty food containers and water bottles. Is there a "caring" organisation out there who will take this person in?
Linda A
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