Monk Disrobes After Sexual Harassment Allegations in Maha Sarakham

A well-known monk at a forest temple in Maha Sarakham province has been accused of sending sexually explicit messages and harassing a 56-year-old woman via Facebook. The monk admitted to the communication after the woman filed a complaint, prompting the provincial Office of Buddhism to investigate alongside the local Sangha.

The case began when a 56-year-old woman from Tha Takiap district, Chachoengsao province, reported that a Facebook user claiming to be a monk in Wapi Pathum district, Maha Sarakham, sent her sexually suggestive messages and used vulgar language constituting sexual harassment. On October 29, 2026, Samphon Chan-ut, director of the Maha Sarakham Office of Buddhism, disclosed progress on the case. After receiving the complaint, officials inspected the monk's residence at a temple in Wapi Pathum but did not find him there. They coordinated with local administrative officials and the temple's parent monastery to report the incident and follow Sangha disciplinary procedures.

On the same morning, the Sangha appointed a fact-finding committee. The monk admitted he had indeed communicated with the complainant. However, because a police report had been filed, detailed information about the individuals and the case could not be released. The Sangha considered the behavior inappropriate and the monk subsequently agreed to disrobe.

The complainant said the incident started on October 16 when she posted a video on her Facebook story. A user commented with sexual innuendo; his profile displayed a monk's photo. She responded angrily and received further vulgar and sexually threatening messages, which she screenshotted as evidence. She also submitted information and partial evidence allegedly involving other women who received flirtatious messages and claims of secret clips or indecent behavior online, urging a thorough investigation. However, details about other potential victims still require verification by authorities.

Samphon expressed regret and apologized to those affected, thanking the public for tips. He emphasized that public vigilance helps protect Buddhism but urged careful fact-checking and fairness to all parties, especially while legal proceedings are ongoing. After the monk's disrobing, the criminal case will proceed through the legal system, while the Sangha handles matters within its responsibility. The public is asked to separate the actions of an individual from the majority of monks who behave properly and remain vital to propagating Buddhism. Disrobing is a Sangha disciplinary process, while allegations of sexual harassment and other misconduct will be evaluated based on evidence and legal proceedings.