Parliamentary Panel Investigates Land Dispute at Khon Kaen Temple
A parliamentary panel investigated land disputes at a Khon Kaen temple where unauthorized claims and restricted access have raised concerns, with police set to summon those involved by late August.
On August 19, Thiwalrat Angkinant, chair of the Religion, Arts and Culture Commission of the House of Representatives, led a fact-finding visit to Wat Pa Adulyaram in Khon Kaen. The commission heard from provincial officials, the Buddhist office, the land office, and local authorities about ongoing land disputes, restricted access to the temple, and alleged unauthorized claims of high-level backing. The temple's abbot, unable to attend due to kidney dialysis treatment, sent his lawyer and a senior monk to represent him.
Police are investigating and plan to summon the individuals involved by August 27. The meeting also reviewed land title transfers, misuse of authority allegations, and the presence of unauthorized persons on temple grounds. Officials are gathering evidence for legal proceedings.
Thiwalrat said the commission will compile all evidence to present to parliament next week, focusing on the temple's land title issues and legal remedies. The parliament will also coordinate with the Buddhist office to educate monks and temples nationwide on proper land and religious property management to prevent similar problems. The committee will use Wat Pa Adulyaram as a case study to develop broader preventive guidelines.
The commission visited the temple in the afternoon to inspect the site and gather additional information from the vice abbot before completing its investigation. The delegation later paid respects to Phra Brahm Vachirathilok, a revered monk who had recently passed away.
