Temple Land Title Change Brings Joy to Supporters
Wat Pa Adulyaram in Khon Kaen completed a legal land title transfer to the temple on September 17, ending a dispute over property that supporters say was always intended as a donation.
At 11:00 on 17 September, reporters observed celebrations at Wat Pa Adulyaram in Sanphathum subdistrict, Khon Kaen municipality, after the Land Office completed the legal transfer of the property deed from Hiang Pim Si to the temple. Worshippers continued their regular merit-making activities as Phra Khru Adulsa Nithes, the temple's abbot, offered blessings to devotees who presented food and daily necessities. Police from Muang Khon Kaen station and community volunteers maintained strict security at the temple, while elderly temple committee members gathered to discuss ongoing disputes.
Natthapattiya Jinjaphattorn, also known as "Phi Moo," a 57-year-old volunteer, said she was delighted by the deed transfer because the land had always belonged to the temple, as the original owner had intended it as a donation. "If the person contesting this had no ulterior motives, why push so hard?" she said, adding that the community welcomed anyone genuinely interested in making merit at the temple. She noted the abbot's compassion and willingness to serve all people without taking sides. "The legal process must continue," she cautioned, "and if they don't stop, it may result in jail time, as the law applies to everyone regardless of connections."
Natthapattiya added that since the deed was officially transferred today, the abbot appeared relieved after worrying about and safeguarding the document for a long time. Police and volunteers pledged to continue protecting the temple's security.
