Lawyer Defends Monk Amidst Allegations, Cites Lack of Evidence Against Media

A lawyer has held a press conference to refute allegations surrounding Phra Maha Thiranat, the abbot of Phu Pha Song Monastery (also known as Phu Kratae Monastery) in Nakhon Ratchasima province. The allegations include having a wife and children, being defrocked from Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Maha Simaram, encroaching on forest land, and financial mismanagement. Ananchai Chaiyadech, president of the Thanaikongthaptham Foundation, stated that complaints against Phra Maha Thiranat have been filed four times since 2007, with the latest in 2024. Each time, the cases were investigated by the Sangha Council, the National Office of Buddhism, and nine other government agencies, but no evidence was found to support the accusations. The woman alleged to be his wife is identified as Ms. Sriphapha Khlongkhamnuan, the daughter of Phra Maha Thiranat's adoptive mother. The foundation claims this family is affluent and has donated personal assets to support the construction of temples and religious structures. Furthermore, Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Maha Simaram has issued a confirmation stating that Phra Maha Thiranat has never been defrocked from the temple. The lawyer also questioned how official documents related to the case appeared in the media, hinting at potential misconduct by government officials and threatening legal action under Article 157 of the Criminal Code if such involvement is proven. The Thanaikongthaptham Foundation has given the media outlets and program teams that presented the information seven days to issue a written apology to Phra Maha Thiranat. Failure to comply will result in further legal proceedings. The allegations and the information presented remain a matter of dispute, with differing perspectives from the parties involved. The truth of the claims will depend on further investigation and evidence from relevant authorities. Source: INN News