Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV

 

A poignant story has emerged from Udon Thani, where a 12-year-old boy named Ata took refuge in an abandoned school, carrying only a photograph of his deceased mother. His decision to leave home was driven by claims of physical harm by his father and feelings of unequal treatment by his grandparents. Ata is now with the Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office, residing temporarily at a local children's home.

 

Ata's grandmother, 66-year-old Samrong, has responded to the situation, asserting that she loves all her grandchildren equally and denies ever forcing Ata out. She expressed frustration over being criticized, explaining her attempts to bring Ata home each time he ran away. Samrong believes Ata often ran away to avoid chores, seeking instead the freedom to play games on his phone. She addressed local gossip accusing her of neglect, clarifying that Ata’s Cambodian mother passed away years ago, leaving him with a sense of loss.

 

Ata's father, Joey, struggles with end-stage kidney failure and tuberculosis, which complicates his ability to care for Ata. Joey explained that he asked Ata to help him with massages, which Ata saw as an intrusion on his gaming time. Joey admits to physically disciplining Ata in the past, viewing it as a misguided teaching method, but asserts his love for Ata and desire for his well-being.

 

Joey tearfully shared his concerns about Ata’s social interactions and expressed a longing to visit him. His severe health issues cast uncertainty over his future, making his relationship with Ata even more pressing.

 

Local resident, 58-year-old Sitthichai Ditcharoen, who had noticed Ata sleeping at the school since early May, expressed his sympathy for the boy. Sitthichai mentioned he would have taken Ata in if circumstances allowed and was relieved that authorities stepped in to offer support.

 

Ata's situation highlights the complex challenges faced by families struggling with health and social issues. It underscores the importance of community support and intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. The local authorities' involvement offers a hopeful path forward for Ata, providing him with the care and stability he needs during this difficult time.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-23

 

 

Tragic but all too common in Thailand 

Poor kid....as said I expect there are many like him. 

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Ata’s Cambodian mother passed away years ago,

Is this the root cause of the neglect?