Bangkok: Srisuwan Janya, leader of the Love the Nation, Love the Country organization, has submitted a petition to the House of Representatives’ Committee on Religion, Arts and Culture. The petition seeks an amendment to the “Monks Act” by adding specific language addressing “monks-novices-undermining religion.” The proposal aims for the House to consider this amendment in three consecutive readings.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Srisuwan’s petition follows recent incidents where senior monks were disrobed after committing disciplinary violations, including engaging in sexual relations with women. He highlighted that the current Criminal Code, particularly Articles 206, 207, and 208, does not adequately address or punish monks and novices for violating the monastic code. Article 206 focuses on insulting religious objects and places, Article 207 on disturbances in religious assemblies, and Article 208 on impersonating a monk. Mr. Srisuwan proposed amendments to include language specifically targeting monks and novices who undermine Buddhism.

Mr. Srisuwan emphasized that discussions on this legal matter have been ongoing since the National Council for Peace and Order and the 25th House of Representatives. He expressed concern that the lack of completion in this area has resulted in significant damage to Buddhism, as evidenced by recent news.

Mrs. Thiapchutha Khaokham, Chairwoman of the Religious Affairs Committee, acknowledged the emotional impact on Buddhists and confirmed that the committee is taking the matter seriously. She stated that the Religious Affairs Subcommittee would urgently review the draft from the 25th House of Representatives. Coordination and study of the proposed amendments are also underway by Mr. Chusak Sirinil, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, who oversees the National Office of Buddhism.

Ms. Thiapchutha further mentioned the urgency of the situation, requesting a two-week timeframe for the subcommittee to study and consider the proposals. She assured that despite the recent change in the minister overseeing the National Office of Buddhism, coordination efforts would continue.

In addition to the proposed amendments to Section 206 of the Criminal Code, Ms. Thiapchutha indicated that the committee would study a draft bill promoting the protection of Buddhism, which includes government proposals to penalize monks for sexual misconduct.

When asked about the committee’s stance on the case involving Ms. Golf, Ms. Thiapchutha stated that the committee had no opinion on the matter.