Forestry officials have filed an encroachment complaint against the Bo Nam Phra In Forest Monastery in Ubon Ratchathani province, following what they say have been repeated violations over the past two years.
The Royal Forest Department said the move was purely a legal matter and was not directed at monks or temple followers.
Director-general Nikorn Sirarotchananon said officials had found 48 structures covering about 12 rai of forest land outside the area legally permitted for use by the monastery.
The complaint was filed without naming suspects, as no individuals were present during the inspection of the disputed area.
Mr Nikorn said the temple holds legal approval for two plots: 15 rai for monastery buildings and monks’ residences, and 484 rai designated for a Buddhist park project jointly managed by the temple and the Royal Forest Department under the “Monks Assisting Forest Officials” scheme.
However, officials later determined that construction had extended beyond both the permitted area and the project boundaries into an additional 12 rai of forest land without authorisation.
Mr Nikorn said the department has not filed charges against the abbot, monks, nuns or lay followers, nor has it ordered anyone to vacate any legally approved zones.
The complaint concerns only the 12 rai found to be encroaching on forest land.
“We must take legal action without exception when complaints are received. Otherwise, we could be accused of neglecting our duties,” Mr Nikorn said, adding that activities within the permitted areas could continue as normal.
Once judicial proceedings conclude, he said, the monastery may submit a new request to use the disputed land.
The department is prepared to consider such an application in line with its policy of promoting cooperation between monks and forest officials in protecting and rehabilitating forests.
Mr Nikorn expressed hope that the issue could ultimately be solved amicably, noting that the temple may not have intended to encroach. He plans to visit the monastery after the Songkran holiday period to clarify the situation with the abbot.
Bo Nam Phra In Forest Monastery was established by a senior monk widely known as Phra Sin Kit, respected for his accessible teaching style. The site has also gained public recognition for its role in rehabilitating degraded forest areas.
The inspection prompted criticism from some followers, who questioned officials’ conduct during the operation. The Royal Forest Department said all actions were carried out lawfully and with respect for religious institutions, while prioritising forest protection.