The Lawyers Council of Thailand will set up a panel to study the government's handling of water runoff and flooding in order to help flood victims who have lost homes and possessions.
Council deputy chairman Kriangsak Woramongkolchai, who heads the 11-man panel, said the committee will look into all possible aspects which may have contributed to the flood crisis.
These include management of water in reservoirs, the invocation of the disaster prevention and mitigation law, and opening and closure of sluice gates, he said.
Mr Kriangsak said if the findings show the damage was caused by the government's negligence or mismanagement, the LCT will provide legal assistance to the flood victims.
He insisted there was no hidden agenda involved and the move is part of the LCT's public service.
Mr Kriangsak said the government's compensation of 5,000 baht does not deprive the flood victims of their legal rights to sue for actual damage.
"If there is evidence that the damage was caused by a lack of prevention or warning or mismanagement, the people can sue the government for the amount they deserve," he said.
He also advised flood victims to compile evidence such as photos of the damage if they want to file a complaint against the government.
Meanwhile, a human rights and environment lawyer is preparing to ask six agencies to take action against a politician who allegedly led villagers to destroy a flood dyke.
Warin Thiamcharas said his petition will be submitted to the prime minister, the national police chief, the city police chief, the Bangkok governor, the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority governor and the natural resources and environment minister.
He said the destruction of the dyke had caused contamination to water resources. He said if these authorities failed to take proper action, he will file a petition with the ombudsman and the Administrative Court.
He also called on human rights and environment organisations to pressure the government to better protect the public interest.
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