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Probe into Defence Ministry’s plan to spy on people through phones

13 Sept 06:42 Key points summarised by AI

Political activist Srisuwan Janya will petition the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to investigate the Defence Ministry (MoD) and Disease Control Department (DCD) for demanding public smartphone usage data, citing breaches of constitutional rights and privacy laws.
The MoD admitted its technical team proposed using phone data for COVID-19 contact tracing, aiming to improve tracking efficiency, as exemplified by the Lumpini boxing stadium cluster.
Despite MoD assurances of good intentions and no current use of the tracking program, an independent academic questioned the MoD's involvement in public health tracking and the lack of transparency regarding its plans, including an alleged undisclosed MoD tracking app.

Today 17:04 Key points summarised by AI

Civic groups, including those representing labourers and older people, submitted a protest letter demanding the Bhumjaithai Party withdraw bills to shift funding for four organizations (Thai PBS, Older Persons Fund, Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Sports Authority of Thailand) from earmarked taxes to the central government budget.
Leaders argue these organizations were established for public interest, supporting public service media, elder care, public health, and sports development, and any amendments should consider all stakeholders' views.
Over 70% of parliamentary poll respondents opposed the proposed changes, prompting civic leaders to call on the ruling party to respect the people's will and withdraw the bills.
A network of slum dwellers also opposes the funding changes, threatening a rally if the government fails to address their demands.