NHRC suggests talks between govt, anti-coal plant protesters

BANGKOK, Feb 16 (TNA) - National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) commissioners are concerned over health of coal-fired power plant protesters on hunger strike for several days, calling for the government and the protesters to hold talks. Activists from the Save the Krabi-Thepa Sea Network started a hunger strike on Feb 12 in front of the UN headquarters in Bangkok, demanding the government to cancel the proposed Krabi and Thepa coal power plant projects. Seven of protesters were sent to hospital for fatigue and lack of rest. NHRC commissioner and human rights defender Angkhana Neelapaijit said the protesters exercise their rights and freedom with an aim to preserve environment. They protest peacefully without weapons but she is worried about their welfare and health and the government’s response to the situation. Hunger strike is peaceful but it is not the real and sustainable solution, she said. As the government pledged to delay the project for creating understanding and find the solution to end the conflict, she proposed representatives from the two sides to meet and listen to comprehensive information carefully. Another NHRC commissioner Tuenjai Deetes said the NHRC is looking into the complaints about the the Thepa and Krabi coal power plant projects. Academicians voiced their concerns over the Environment and Health Impact Assessment (EHIA), saying the EHIA, approved by the expert committee has academic discrepancy. They will compile expert opinions and make the report for the NHRC to forward it to the Cabinet and agencies concerned. She called for the government to respect human rights and assigned agencies concerned to take care of the protesters’ health and living condition. Representatives from both sides should talk on their different views and information, she added. (TNA)