BANGKOK, July 29 – Thailand’s government lifted a state of emergency in six provinces today but said the special security law would remain in place in 10 others, including Bangkok, scene of a deadly bomb blast on Sunday.

“It will take effect today in six provinces,” Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said after a meeting with the National Security Council.

The state of emergency, imposed since April to deal with anti-government protests, bans political gatherings of more than five people and gives the government powers to impose a curfew and censor media.

It also gives broad powers to security forces, including the right to detain suspects without charge for 30 days. – Reuters