A 49-year-old Thai abbot has found himself at the centre of a relationship scandal after an intoxicated female devotee allegedly stormed into his living quarters and confronted him over claims that he had been romantically involved with three women.
The incident reportedly took place at a well-known temple in Ban Kruat district, Buriram province, Thailand. An audio recording and video of the confrontation subsequently circulated online, attracting widespread attention and prompting calls from local residents for an investigation.
The woman allegedly entered the abbot’s quarters late at night and launched into an angry tirade, accusing him of betraying her and maintaining relationships with multiple female devotees. Sounds of objects being smashed could also reportedly be heard during the confrontation.
Thai Buddhist Authorities Investigate Abbot Over Allegations
The controversy prompted local residents to demand that religious authorities investigate the matter, particularly given the abbot’s position within the Buddhist community.
On October 19, Buriram’s Buddhist affairs chief, Pichawarin Suwanwong, accompanied local monks and administrative officials to bring the 49-year-old abbot in for questioning.
The investigation reportedly lasted approximately two hours, during which the abbot was questioned about his alleged relationships with female devotees and the accusations circulating online.
Abbot Admits Flirting Through Facebook Messages
During the questioning, the abbot reportedly became emotional and admitted that he had contacted the female devotee through Facebook Messenger.
He acknowledged sending her messages that could be interpreted as romantic advances or flirtatious conversations.
However, he denied having sexual relations with the woman and rejected allegations that he had simultaneously maintained romantic relationships with three different women.
The abbot reportedly insisted that he was only romantically involved with one woman and maintained that the allegations surrounding multiple relationships were untrue.
He also argued that exchanging flirtatious messages through Facebook did not necessarily constitute a violation of Buddhist religious rules.
Abbot Announces Decision To Leave Monkhood
Despite denying the more serious allegations, the abbot reportedly decided to leave the monkhood following the controversy.
He told investigators that his decision was intended to take responsibility for the situation, ease dissatisfaction among temple devotees and protect the reputation of the religious institution.
According to the report, he planned to formally disrobe on October 26, coinciding with the end of the Buddhist Rains Retreat, also known as Ok Phansa.
The scandal has sparked discussion about the conduct expected of Buddhist monks, particularly those holding senior positions within temples.
While the abbot has denied having sexual relationships with the women, his admission that he exchanged flirtatious messages with a female devotee has raised questions among members of the local Buddhist community about the boundaries between religious duties and personal relationships.