Thailand: Jewish Cemetery in Bang Khla Ordered to Relocate Remains Within 7 Days

A Jewish cemetery in Bang Khla District, Chachoengsao Province, Thailand, has been ordered by the provincial governor to demolish all structures and relocate all remains within seven days. The directive comes after it was discovered that the cemetery's operating permit had expired on December 31, 2023, and had not been renewed, with authorities finding that the land use and construction did not comply with legal requirements. The issue began with complaints from local residents concerned about the cemetery, named 'JEWISH CEMETERY THAILAND,' due to its proximity to their community, agricultural land, water sources, a school, and village pathways. An initial investigation by administrative officials found that while the site had received a permit to establish a cemetery in 2021, it expired at the end of 2023. The renewal process stalled as officials identified non-compliance with regulations, particularly regarding distances from roads and water sources. Despite ongoing legal discussions regarding the permit renewal, a follow-up inspection on September 4 revealed four burial sites within the premises. Three of these sites had been cemented over, while one appeared to be a newly dug grave. Officials believe that burials conducted after the permit's expiry could constitute a violation of the Cemetery and Crematorium Act. Consequently, on September 7, the Governor of Chachoengsao Province issued an administrative order mandating the demolition of all structures and the transfer of all bodies buried or stored on the property to a legally permitted private cemetery within the specified seven-day period. The Bang Khla District office and relevant agencies have been instructed to closely monitor the situation. Furthermore, the Samet Tai Subdistrict Administrative Organization has issued a notice prohibiting the use of the buildings and posted it at the cemetery entrance, warning of penalties under the Building Control Act for non-compliance. Separately, questions have been raised regarding a Jewish cemetery in Bangkok's Charoen Krung area concerning its land and burial records. However, these remain allegations requiring further verification of lease agreements, title deeds, and burial registries before any conclusions can be drawn. The core issue in this matter is not the nationality or religion of the cemetery's occupants, but rather the adherence to Thai laws regarding permits and regulations. In Bang Khla, clear directives have been issued by state agencies, and the implementation process, along with any further accountability, will be closely observed. Source: INN News