Bangkok and Chiang Mai officials have announced rules for the upcoming Songkran festival officially celebrated from April 13-15.
Provocative dances, red bowls emblazoned with the name ‘Thaksin Shinawatra’ and revealing clothing are strictly prohibited during the Songkran festivities.
Police will take immediate action against Songkran revelers who get drunk or wear indecent clothes. This include the so-called “X-ray pants” which are becoming a big trend throughout the colorful water festival.
Chiang Mai Governor Pawin Chamniprasart said that, “If people wear these pants alone without underwear, it will be considered public obscenity.” He also added that any bold exhibitionist wearing these sexy pants will face prosecution.
Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha said that “he had ordered the immediate arrest of any females or transvestites found performing sexually provocative dance moves on pickups or trucks during the festival.”
He stated that overly suggestive clothes might arouse some merrymakers that can lead to sexual harassment and other crimes.
Meanwhile, BMA (Bangkok Metropolitan Administration) is reminding people not to wear facial masks, carry backpacks, and use large water guns during Songkran.
Assistant National Police Commissioner Pol Lt General Anan Srihiran declared that water trucks will also also be banned on 33 of the capital’s major roads during the festivities.
sources: The Star, Coconuts Bangkok