The National Office of Buddhism, in collaboration with Maha Mee, accompanied the abbot of Wat Pa Adunyaram to oppose the issuance of a duplicate land title deed requested by the heirs and filed to change the ownership name to the temple. The abbot was moved to tears after receiving encouragement from supporters.
At 10:00 a.m. on 14 August 2026 at Wat Pa Adunyaram in Khon Kaen Municipality, Mr. Kritsakorn Sanit Sakdee, inspector of the National Office of Buddhism, together with Dr. Prayut Prathetsena, Vice Chairman of the Dharma Army Foundation and Director of the Khon Kaen Provincial Office of Buddhism, visited Phra Kru Adulyasanithet, the abbot of Wat Pa Adunyaram.
After discussions clarified the purpose of their visit and mutual understanding was reached, the inspection team took the abbot and legal counsel to the Khon Kaen Land Office to meet Mr. Pongsuwat Chai Ton Tuek, the land officer of Khon Kaen province.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kritsakorn Sanit Sakdee informed Khon Kaen land officials that their visit had two purposes: first, to oppose the issuance of a duplicate title deed claimed by the heirs; second, to request a name change on the land title to the temple’s name. He expressed confidence that the Khon Kaen Land Office would complete these processes promptly.
The inspector added that the situation at Wat Pa Adunyaram is of great concern to the National Office of Buddhism and has been treated as an urgent example. He urged officials to coordinate with all temples that have land donations to expedite transferring titles from donors to the temples to prevent future disputes. Although legally the land is public property once donated, even without title transfer, heirs have no rights to reclaim it, but preventive measures are necessary.
Regarding Wat Pa Adunyaram, there have been previous lawsuits in which the temple prevailed in all courts. However, heirs recently submitted requests, including for the issuance of a duplicate title deed on 27 July 2026. The abbot must file an objection to comply with legal procedures and proceed with the name change. Once completed legally, it is believed no further issues will arise, and any documents held by others concerning this land will be considered invalid.
Dr. Prayut Prathetsena stated that today marks a new beginning for the temple to complete all necessary legal procedures. Legally, the temple owns the land but previously had no policy to transfer or change the deed’s name. Today is an auspicious sign to submit all documents, await the lawyer’s signature, and then file with the land office for processing.
Two actions will be taken today: first, opposing the issuance of the duplicate title deed; second, requesting the name on the title be changed to the temple’s name. The process may take time due to involvement of several agencies, including government departments, the Ministry of Interior, and the provincial governor, who must verify the case. It will also depend on any further actions by the heirs. The temple is following all laws, including the Sangha Act and related ministerial regulations. The outcome will be closely followed by the public and media nationwide as a precedent for Buddhist institutions to secure and protect temple public property.
Mr. Pongsuwat Chai Ton Tuek, land officer of Khon Kaen, said he understands the abbot’s and delegation’s intentions in visiting the land office. He explained that the abbot can immediately provide statements and sign documents to oppose the issuance of the duplicate title deed because the application was made by Mrs. Buakai Sarasamut, estate manager for Mr. Hiang Phimsi, claiming the original deed was lost and supported by witness testimonies. The abbot opposes this as the original deed is still held by Wat Pa Adunyaram and was presented to officials as evidence.
Regarding the change of ownership name from Mr. Hiang Phimsi to Wat Pa Adunyaram, the Khon Kaen Land Office must first gather complete information from relevant agencies before proceeding. This matter is unrelated to the heirs or Mr. Hiang’s family since the legal dispute has been resolved. The office will expedite completion as soon as possible.
Phra Kru Adulyasanithet, abbot of Wat Pa Adunyaram, said after groups blocked the temple’s entrances, devotees expressed concern for his health and followed the news closely. He told supporters not to worry as his health remains good and there are no abnormalities. He said the incident has passed; as a monk, he does not seek to fight anyone. Initially concerned about safety, he now feels at ease because Khon Kaen City Police officers are maintaining peace around the clock. He reassured devotees not to worry.
Pol. Col. Yoswat Kaewsuebtanich, Superintendent of Khon Kaen City Police, updated on summons issuance for 'Aunt Da' and associates identified from images after verifying their identities. The group includes Aunt Da, the van owner, two others in the van, and another person whose identity is confirmed. Despite summonses being issued, none have contacted investigators to arrange a meeting, which remains their right.
Summonses are sent to the addresses registered on national ID cards. Aunt Da and the van owner reside in Bangkok, outside Khon Kaen City Police jurisdiction, so 15 days are allowed for document delivery. Others with local addresses have 7 days. If they fail to appear, a second summons will be issued.
Investigations into surrounding witnesses have identified a concrete mixer truck and a building materials delivery vehicle registered in Khon Kaen province. Their owners have been notified to come forward. Concealing company names and vehicle registration numbers during the incident may constitute joint trespassing offenses. Investigators will further examine details before filing charges against the drivers and delivery personnel of both companies.