Legal Corner: Is Splashing Someone With Water During Songkran Who Doesnt Want to Get Wet Illegal?

During Songkran, which is Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, splashing water is a common practice.

However, it’s important to respect the wishes of those who do not want to participate. According to the Lawyers Council of Thailand, splashing water on people who do not wish to join the water festival could result in legal action.

If someone is found to be causing a nuisance or damaging property by spraying water on non-participants, they could face legal penalties. These could include a prison sentence of up to one month or a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or possibly both. It’s advised to ensure that people are willing to get wet before splashing them, especially since some may have work or other commitments.

Although one could file a police report in regards to unwanted water splashing, it’s not guaranteed (and quite frankly, unlikely unless someone was seriously injured) that the matter would be enforced. If one truly wanted to press charges against another person for unwanted water splashing, it is recommended they hire a lawyer, such as Anglo Siam Legal, to assist in drawing up formal charges and with the legal process. The filer would also need to know who splashed them and be able to prove they made it known that splashing water on them was unacceptable.

In reality, it is unlikely that such a case would proceed forward, but were one to have enough time and money to pursue legal action, they could, in theory, according to the Lawyer’s Council of Thailand.

Please remember to celebrate Songkran with respect for others’ rights and safety. If you’re in Thailand during this time, enjoy the festivities responsibly!

Consider reaching out to Anglo Siam Legal, contact information below, for assistance with any problems you may have had or questions regarding legal matters, including criminal case related problems.

All legal or other Information contained herein is provided by or in strict consultation with licensed attorneys who are members of the Lawyers Council of Thailand. The client manager and CEO, although a lawyer does not practice law in Thailand as it is a regulated service his role is to convey the advice from the Thai lawyers to clients to ensure matters are understood by all parties.

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