Bangkok – Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said the arrests of senior monks, who were allegedly involved in the embezzlement of state fund for the destitute, would be good for Buddhism in the long term.
Wissanu downplayed speculation that the arrests would hamper public confidence in Buddhism, saying that the impact would be minimal. He added the alleged monks have the right to defend themselves in the court of law but they will be prosecuted if found guilty.
As it is considered inappropriate to jail or ask a monk to stand trial, the Deputy Prime Minister said they would be asked to leave the monkhood first.
Asked if people can continue to trust monks, the Deputy Prime Minister said no one should be discouraged by the incident, adding that it is merely a measure taken to purify the religion.
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