Culture
Temple Committee Removes Controversial Furniture Following Scandal
A temple committee in Thailand has requested police assistance to remove a round table linked to a sexual misconduct scandal involving a former abbot.
According to a report by Matichon Online on September 11, 2026, the committee of a local temple has taken formal steps to remove a specific round table from the premises. The furniture has become a focal point of public controversy due to allegations that it was used by a former abbot and a woman, identified as 'Sika Ae,' for sexual activities within the temple grounds.
Temple officials have characterized the table as an 'inauspicious object' and requested assistance from the Crime Suppression Division to ensure its removal. The committee expressed a strong desire to cleanse the temple of items associated with the scandal, which has caused significant distress to the local community and devotees.
For residents and visitors, this incident highlights the ongoing sensitivity surrounding religious institutions and the strict expectations of conduct for clergy in Thailand. While the removal of the table is intended to restore the sanctity of the temple, the broader investigation into the former abbot’s conduct remains a matter of public record. It is important to note that while the committee has acted to remove the item, the legal proceedings regarding the specific allegations against the former abbot and his associate are still subject to official verification by the relevant authorities.
