Bangkok: Mr. Suchart Tancharoen, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, has announced a decisive new policy directive aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis of faith within the Buddhist community. The directive, issued to the National Office of Buddhism, includes immediate measures to regulate temple finances and assets, appoint treasurers, and ensure strict disciplinary action against monks involved in misconduct. Provincial directors face termination if complaints regarding monastic discipline violations surface, with a three-month timeline set for re-evaluation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suchart emphasized the urgency of addressing the crisis, which has drawn significant public attention. He highlighted persistent problems related to temple property management and misconduct involving women, noting that such issues often lead to deceit and exploitation of temple resources. The directive specifically calls for provincial Buddhist office directors to adopt a proactive stance, as public reports indicate awareness of improper behavior by some abbots, yet the Office of Buddhism remains uninformed.
Mr. Suchart also outlined a policy to enhance transparency in the management of temple assets using a Big Data system. This initiative aims to publicly disclose the financial status of temples and abbots, ensuring accountability and preventing secretive financial gains. Temples are mandated to limit cash holdings to 100,000 baht, with regular financial reporting to the Office of Buddhism. Compliance inspections are scheduled for October 1st, with non-compliance considered a violation of monastic discipline.
The minister further proposed amendments to the Sangha Act of 1962 to introduce stricter penalties for sexual misconduct among monks and women, as well as fraudulent claims of supernatural powers. The amendments, slated for public hearing and subsequent approval, suggest imprisonment and fines for offenders, with potential revisions based on parliamentary feedback.
Addressing concerns about the Office of Buddhism’s effectiveness, Mr. Suchart dismissed suggestions of disarray, acknowledging minor laxity but expressing confidence in the new proactive approach. He assured a review of key performance indicators within 2-3 months, warning of consequences for continued non-compliance.
Mr. Inthaporn Chan-aim, Director of the National Office of Buddhism, acknowledged ongoing challenges in treasurer appointments, highlighting current efforts to register and qualify temple treasurers. Mr. Suchart suggested the development of a model akin to public health volunteers for treasurer roles, emphasizing the need for skill development and qualification standards.
In response to issues surrounding the production of amulets, Mr. Suchart announced plans for stricter oversight, citing concerns of money laundering through amulet sales. He proposed the establishment of a committee to regulate amulet production, curbing potential misuse.
Concluding the press conference, Mr. Suchart urged the media to focus on positive developments, emphasizing the commitment of the Office of Buddhism and government to restore public faith and preserve Buddhism in the country. He stressed that the actions of a few should not tarnish the religion, which is upheld by the teachings of the Lord Buddha, not individual monks.