The abbot of Wat Pa Adunyaram in Khon Kaen province confirmed that a land title deed for more than 21 rai was donated to the temple in front of villagers, with photographic documentation and copies distributed to attendees.
At 5:00 p.m. on 14 Aug 2026 at Wat Pa Adunyaram, within Khon Kaen municipality, reporters spoke with Phra Kru Adulsaranithet, the abbot, regarding the land ownership dispute over more than 21 rai where the temple is located.
Phra Kru Adulsaranithet confirmed that the land was not merely presented to the temple for acknowledgment or to support a permit application for temple construction. Instead, the title deed was donated to the temple in front of villagers, with the event photographed as evidence.
Phra Kru Adulsaranithet said that while Mr. Hiang was still alive, he personally brought the land title deed to donate to the monks at the temple, witnessed by villagers. Copies of the deed were distributed to those attending, and Phra Saengphong took photographs of the event. Later, Mr. Hiang and Mr. Ken also went to sign a contract transferring the land for temple construction in Mueang Khon Kaen district. The contract documents still exist. The abbot thus affirmed that this is not a case where the title deed was presented but no action was taken.
Regarding claims that the title deed was photocopied for subdividing and selling the land, the abbot explained that selling or subdividing land must be processed at the land office. At that time, ownership was still under Mr. Hiang’s name, not the abbot’s or any monk’s, so the land could not be sold on behalf of the owner.
The abbot also explained the origin of the title deed issuance, noting the area was originally a cemetery with a nun’s dwelling. Land processes for temple construction included detailed planning of maps and access routes, with roads built to support the title deed issuance and ongoing temple area development.
Regarding disputes from Mr. Hiang’s heirs about the intention behind the land donation, the abbot said the land had been involved in litigation since 2004. That case addressed Mr. Hiang’s intent to donate the land to the temple.
The abbot affirmed that Mr. Hiang’s intention is a factual matter that should be considered alongside existing documents and evidence.
Meanwhile, the ownership dispute over Wat Pa Adunyaram’s land remains in the legal process, with the temple and heirs each asserting their rights and interpretations of the original owner’s intent.