BANGKOK – As the streets of Thailand turn into a giant water battleground for the annual Songkran festival, legal authorities are issuing a stern reminder: the celebration is no excuse for bad behavior.
With millions of locals and tourists hitting the streets to splash water and apply traditional white powder, a new warning from the Office of the Court of Justice makes it clear that “festivity” does not mean “consent.”
Mr. Suriyan Hongwilai, spokesperson for the Justice Court, has urged the public to enjoy the tradition with respect. While the festival is a time of joy, taking advantage of the chaotic crowds to grope, touch, or harass others can now land offenders behind bars for up to a decade.
The Heavy Price of “Indecent Acts”
Many often mistake the crowded atmosphere of Songkran as a “free pass” for physical contact. However, under Section 278 of the Thai Criminal Code, any act of molestation or groping—whether the victim is male or female—is a serious criminal offense.
The penalties for these “indecent acts” are severe:
- Standard Penalty: Up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both.
- Crimes Against Children: If the victim is under 15, the punishment remains up to 10 years, even if the child “consents.”
- Young Children: For victims under 13, the minimum jail time starts at 1 year and can go up to 10 years.
- Aggravated Circumstances: If force, threats, or weapons are used, or if the victim is unable to resist, the prison term jumps to 15 years with fines up to 300,000 baht.
New Harassment Laws: It’s Not Just About Touching
One of the most critical updates for 2026 is the enforcement of new sexual harassment laws that went into effect on December 30, 2025. These laws cover “non-physical” harassment, meaning you can get arrested without ever laying a hand on someone.
According to the latest legal guidelines, the following behaviors are now strictly prohibited:
- Lewd Remarks: Making sexual comments or catcalling.
- Inappropriate Gestures: Staring or making suggestive body movements.
- Stalking & Harassment: Following someone or causing them to feel insecure.
- Digital Harassment: Sending unwanted sexual messages or photos online.
If these acts occur in a public place—like a major Songkran water station—the penalty is up to 3 years in prison and a 60,000 baht fine.
Play it Safe: Tips for a Law-Abiding Songkran.
The authorities aren’t trying to ruin the fun; they are trying to ensure everyone feels safe. To avoid a trip to the police station, follow these simple rules of etiquette:
- Ask Before You Paste: Always ask for permission before applying powder to someone’s face.
- Stick to the Face: Keep the powder on the cheeks or forehead. Touching other people’s bodies is a legal red line.
- Water Safety: Use clean water and avoid high-pressure water guns that can cause injury.
- Respect “No”: If someone signals they don’t want to be splashed or powdered, move on. Participation in the festival does not imply consent for physical touch.
Victims Have 24/7 Digital Protection
For those who experience harassment online—such as photos taken without consent and posted with lewd captions—the Justice Court has launched a “Take It Down” initiative. Victims can file petitions through the CIOS system at any time of day to have offending content removed immediately while police proceed with criminal charges.
“Songkran is a beautiful Thai tradition,” Mr. Suriyan said. “Let’s keep it that way by showing respect. Don’t let a moment of poor judgment lead to a criminal record that affects your entire future.”
