Revered Abbot Reassures Supporters Amid Land Dispute
Supporters continue visiting the abbot of Paa Adul Yaaram Temple in Khon Kaen to offer moral support as a land dispute unfolds, with police maintaining 24-hour security at the temple. The abbot has reassured visitors he has already won the
Khon Kaen — Dharma relatives continue to visit Phra Kru Atul Sarnnithet, abbot of Paa Adul Yaaram Temple, to offer moral support as a land dispute continues. Police have set up a tent in front of the abbot's quarters and maintain 24-hour security with both officers and volunteer police present.
Most visitors travelling to the temple are from other provinces, coming in family groups or organised parties. Among them are retired senior civil servants and lawyers seeking to pay their respects. Phra Kru Atul Sarnnithet has been conversing with his visitors in a friendly manner, smiling and reassuring them that there is nothing to worry about because he has already won.
Surachai Intasen, 51, from San Sai District in Chiang Mai, said he made the journey specifically to offer moral support to the abbot. After following news reports and feeling that the situation was unjust, he felt compelled as a Buddhist to come and encourage the abbot. He said that even while watching news coverage at home, he felt angry at what he perceived as wrongdoing.
After reviewing documents released by the Buddhist Office and seeing news reports, Surachai said it was clear the property belonged to the temple and there was no need for further investigation, as he believes the temple has acted correctly. "I travelled over 700 kilometres because I wanted to offer my encouragement to the abbot in person," he explained. "After speaking with him, I felt he was no longer stressed, so I encouraged him to stay strong. The abbot smiled and laughed in response, showing his mood has improved."
Surachai added that as a Buddhist, he wanted to tell "Aunt Da" to stop, warning that if she continues she may soon find herself unable to speak. He alluded to a karmic belief that anyone who does wrong against the temple or the clergy will suffer severe consequences in the afterlife. He personally believes the matter will be resolved soon if all parties act seriously and with genuine intent. Despite his emotions being stirred when discussing the case, he said if he were to meet Aunt Da face to face, he would tell her to stop, though he also wondered whether she had no relatives or family members to advise and caution her.
