Report Most Thais Say Rogue Monks Must Face Punishment, Survey Finds

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Picture courtesy of ABC Australia | Photographer: Matt Henry

 

A new survey reveals most Thais believe some Buddhist monks have strayed from their spiritual path and should face consequences. Conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration between July 14 and 16, the poll sampled 1,310 Buddhists nationwide.

 

The results are damning, with 76.11% of respondents asserting that certain monks have engaged in activities like drug abuse, alcohol consumption, gambling, and inappropriate relationships.

 

Financial and material obsessions are also a concern, as 45.95% of participants reported some monks being obsessed with wealth and status. An additional 45.80% perceived a materialistic trend among the clergy. Concerns over monks viewing the monkhood as a mere livelihood permeated 40% of responses.

 

Despite these issues, faith in Buddhism remains relatively strong, with 68.55% maintaining their belief intact. However, faith in individual monks has declined for 58.40% of those surveyed, reflecting a complex relationship between the public and their spiritual leaders.

 

Public sentiment heavily favours heightened accountability, as 94.35% of respondents support legal amendments to punish monks breaching monastic rules. Furthermore, 93.20% advocate for consequences for those engaging sexually with monks. This follows scandals involving icons like “Sika Golf” and high-ranking clergy members.

 

The survey underscores a call for reform within the monkhood and suggests a public appetite for increased transparency and discipline in religious communities. As discussions continue, the future of monastic integrity remains a critical area for public and clerical dialogue.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok POst 2025-07-21

 

 

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Was on Thai tv last night, monk of 47 years at Nakon Sawan caught with two girlfriend and stealing 100 million baht to splurge on them. He would appear socially with them in a wig and normal clothes, not a bad job at all.