The Kruba Chaiwat Foundation clarified its plan to sue those distorting facts regarding the encroachment on Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO) land, emphasizing that the case is currently under legal process. Meanwhile, lawyer Ananchai is preparing to file a complaint accusing Phra Chaiwat and associates of encroachment on ALRO land to a senior official tomorrow.
The case involves the Pa Chana Chai spiritual retreat center in Muak Lek district, Saraburi province, which was inspected by relevant authorities following allegations of encroaching over 2,000 rai of land belonging to the Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO), drawing significant public attention.
On 23 Feb 2026, the Pa Chana Chai spiritual retreat center and the Kruba Chaiwat Foundation for Peace issued a statement via the Kruba Chaiwat Pa Chana Chai Spiritual Retreat Center Facebook page in Saraburi. They stated that the land case is currently under investigation and legal proceedings by the appropriate government agencies.
The statement reads: “Regarding the news about the land of the Pa Chana Chai spiritual retreat center and our foundation, the matter is currently undergoing investigation and legal processing by relevant government authorities.”
The foundation asked the public and Buddhists to critically assess information and refrain from spreading or commenting in ways that may distort facts, which could cause harm to the retreat center and to Buddhism as a whole.
Furthermore, should any posts, information, or actions on social media attack, distort, defame, or slander, causing misunderstandings and serious damage, or constitute legal offenses, the foundation reserves the right to take legal action to protect its rights and reputation. This notice is for general awareness.”
On 24 Feb 2026, lawyer Nattanun Sudprasert shared her opinion on her personal page about the issue, stating that what distinguishes Kruba from laypeople is the use of certain legal rights, and she respectfully offers straightforward advice.
She said that proving the truth requires bringing evidence into the justice system. She advised against suing to silence the media or villagers because, wearing monastic robes, the villagers have the right to critique. Fair criticism following police reports is expected. If monks sue laypeople, it is the monks who should feel ashamed. As a well-wisher, she urged careful thought, noting that if proven innocent, he will gain more praise than before. The current situation is karmic consequence that must be accepted without surrender or worsening it. Use mindfulness, wisdom, and evidence to resolve the issue.
She also advised villagers following the news not to slander or insult him. Whether he is guilty or not will be decided by justice. Opinions should be expressed politely without accusations, based on reason, law, and Buddhist discipline.
She offered to assist as a lawyer for anyone who is sued after making reasonable critiques, except those unable to travel will receive case advice. However, she will not assist those who criticize out of anger or with slanderous intent.
Lawyer Ananchai Chaiyadej, known as Lawyer Ananchai, posted on his personal page that tomorrow (25 Feb 2026) at 10:30 a.m., the Thong Army Lawyers Foundation will file a complaint against the Kruba Chaiwat Foundation for Peace, its board members, and Phra Chaiwat with associates for encroaching on ALRO land, submitting the complaint to the senior official at the Department of Special Investigation.
