The Wat Pa Adunyaram committee has come out to refute heirs of "Mr. Hiang" who claim they want 5 rai each of temple land, stating that even death won't grant it. They expressed concern for the abbot, who is ill yet must remain watchful against gun threats, as he fights to protect the temple land.
On 21 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Sangdao Chantawich, 76, a committee member of Wat Pa Adunyaram, said he is the most recent committee member, joining in 2010 CE. The temple has five trustees, including Mr. Lop Nontawong, the senior trustee, along with Mr. Adun Polthanee, Mr. Sumet Wongko, Mr. Sit Worayoth, and himself.
Following accusations by Aunt Da and heirs claiming the committee wants temple land, after returning from the community hall, he received calls and villagers' reports about the claim that the committee planned to divide the temple land with 5 rai each. He joked with villagers that even half a rai would be enough, showing no offense as he is used to such talk. After hearing from the Religious Affairs Commission and responsible government agencies, the temple land is confirmed as official. Even if the title deed does not name the temple, the donor has legally transferred the land to the temple, so heirs cannot sue to reclaim it. The disputed land is considered state property. He believes the opposing party is disturbing the abbot, disrupting monastic activities, or spreading rumors of drugs at the temple. The abbot welcomes inspections; any monk found with drugs can be defrocked without issue.
Regarding requests to see documents at the Buddhist Office, he believes the temple's establishment follows official announcements posted at the temple.
All committee members serve wholeheartedly without seeking personal gain, working to preserve the temple and Buddhist traditions for future generations. All are in their seventies and focus on accumulating merit, not material assets, which cannot be taken beyond death. The heirs all have sufficient jobs and income. Even if the abbot passes away, no one can claim the land. The abbot has no children, only nephews who care for him. His siblings have families and do not interfere. His fight is for the Buddhist community’s benefit. It is sad since the abbot is ill and risking his life amid gun threats. He no longer lives normally, constantly worrying about his safety and those seeking to provoke conflict, but he avoids involvement in such matters. If strangers come calling, he stays away.
Additionally, there are rumors of a mysterious caller offering the abbot 40 million baht to leave the temple. It is unclear if this is true or just an attempt to cause unrest. The abbot said the opposing side likely will not stop and may continue to disturb the temple.