Culture
Dispute Over Unauthorized Removal of Electrical Infrastructure at Chaiyaphum Shrine
The president of the Mahakali Shrine has petitioned the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) to investigate the unauthorized removal of power poles and transformers from their premises.
On August 7, 2026, Prommasarit Krittayavee, president of the Mahakali Shrine (Thung Dok Krachiao), accompanied by legal representatives, submitted a formal request to the Governor of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) in Bangkok. The petition calls for an investigation into the removal of electrical poles and transformers from the shrine’s property in Chaiyaphum province, which allegedly occurred without the owner's consent.
According to the complainant, the incident took place on April 22, 2026, when vehicles resembling PEA service trucks entered the site to dismantle equipment without prior notification. Upon visiting the Bamnet Narong branch of the PEA the following day, the shrine’s management identified several irregularities in the documentation used to justify the service cancellation. These concerns include incomplete details on the cancellation request forms and a power-of-attorney document that lacked the required revenue stamps.
For residents and visitors, this case highlights potential administrative vulnerabilities regarding utility service management and property rights. While the shrine management has filed a police report, the investigation remains ongoing. It is yet to be confirmed whether the actions taken by the local electricity branch were the result of procedural errors, internal misconduct, or fraudulent third-party requests. The PEA has been asked to verify the legitimacy of the cancellation process and the involvement of local staff.