Stroke Victim Abandoned at Temple: Outrage and Calls for Accountability

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from responders

 

In a shocking incident that has stirred public outrage, a 54-year-old man named Anan Boonma, an ex-painter who suffered a stroke, was abandoned at Wat Chalerm Phra Kiat Worawihan temple in the Bang Sri Muang district of Nonthaburi. He had been left there overnight on 17 February by officials from a local foundation, who failed to provide proper assistance for his medical condition.

 

Anan, who is partially paralyzed and has been battling tuberculosis, spent two night exposed to the elements without any help. Reports indicate that he was left to fend for himself, lying on the ground and suffering from the harsh conditions.

 

The temple’s assistant abbot, Phra Khru Thamthor Somphong Chantiko, expressed his deep disapproval of the actions taken by the officials who abandoned Anan at the temple. He stated, “I know which agency brought him here, but I will not disclose their name. It is unacceptable to leave a stroke patient in this manner at our temple. This should not be the responsibility of the temple.”

 

Phra Khru Somphong emphasised that while temples often serve as places of refuge, they lack the necessary medical equipment and expertise to care for seriously ill individuals. If people want to share food or request a place to stay for a night or two, we are happy to help as much as we can. But to abandon someone and expect the temple to take over their care is simply wrong, 

Anan’s condition poses a public health risk, particularly given his tuberculosis diagnosis. This could endanger visitors and locals passing by, Phra Khru Somphong noted. If officials cannot take care of individuals in need, what is their purpose? We cannot allow this to continue.

 

The temple has a strict policy against allowing animals to be abandoned there, and the assistant abbot questioned why a human life would be treated any differently. Those responsible must understand the gravity of their actions. It is vital that we approach this with compassion and responsibility.

 

Following the online public outcry, the Nonthaburi Provincial Health Office dispatched an ambulance from Bang Yai Hospital to retrieve Anan and ensure he receives appropriate medical care. Authorities also plan to coordinate with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security to find a long-term solution for Anan’s care.

 

The local community, alongside temple officials, expressed relief that Anan would finally receive the help he desperately needs. Phra Khru Somphong concluded, “Let this incident serve as a reminder that we must treat all lives with dignity and compassion. I hope it is the last time someone is abandoned like this at our temple.”

 

As investigations continue, the public awaits accountability from the officials responsible for abandoning Anan, as many call for improved protocols to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

 

-- 2025-02-20

 

[Tropicalevo]

2 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

The temple’s assistant abbot, Phra Khru Thamthor Somphong Chantiko, expressed his deep disapproval of the actions taken by the officials who abandoned Anan at the temple.

And it did not occur to the assistant abbot to call for an ambulance?

But rather, he also left the poor abandoned chap on the floor outside.

Selfish git.