The Board of Censors yesterday defended its decision to ban the "Kor Thort ... Prathet Thai" (Apologise ... Thailand) television commercial, saying it might make social rifts even deeper.
Some parts of the commercial could be the basis for legal action by a third party, while some others could be in violation of other people's rights and freedom, the committee said in a statement.
To allow the commercial on air, the panel has ordered that six scenes of the 150-second commercial, involving images deemed legally and morally improper such as the burning of buildings, soldiers pointing guns, nudity, monks being arrested and violent protests, be taken out.
"The committee's consideration of the radio and television commercials are based on the opinions and concerns of all parts of society. However, its mission is to create professional standards on the basis of creativity, social responsibility and peace of the people and the country," the statement said.
"The board, comprised of representatives from five agencies, namely Channels 3,5,7, 9 and Advertising Association of Thailand, was created in 1994 to make sure all radio and television commercials are in line with the Operation of Radio and Television Broadcasting Business Act," the statement said.
It also said that the policies and framework in terms of the committee's conduct are in line with related laws and regulations to ensure that same standards and direction are used in the consideration of commercials for free TV.