Temple Land Dispute Erupts in Surin as Heir Claims Ownership
A Surin heir has disputed the temple's ownership of 21 rai of land and begun excavation, claiming it as state property, while villagers who collectively funded the 1998 purchase defend their decades-old claim.
Residents of Khao To village in Surin province are rallying to defend temple land after an heir claimed ownership of the property and began earthwork to reclaim it. The disputed land, about 21 rai in size located south of Khao To Temple in Phanom Dong Rak district, was originally sold to an intermediary by the heir's deceased father, then resold to the temple in 1998 for 180,000 baht. Villagers say they collectively raised funds through ordination and merit-making ceremonies over many years to pay for the land.
The heir recently disputed the temple's ownership and brought in heavy machinery to excavate the area, claiming it as state land (public property). Pennapha Suebsao, 39, a village representative leading the defense effort, said the villagers do not understand why the heir is now reclaiming land that was legitimately sold decades ago. She emphasized that many villagers willingly donated to support the purchase and questioned the sudden reversal. The community has appealed for a fair investigation into the land's documentation and legal status. Attempts to interview the heir about the dispute were unsuccessful.
The case involves questions about state land status and requires verification of sales documents and ownership records from relevant authorities to reach a clear resolution.
