Bangkok Buddha Boy Cult Defies Court, Faces Police Crackdown
Concerns are mounting over a controversial Thai spiritual group centered around a nine-year-old boy proclaimed by his followers to be the son of Lord Buddha. Former Democrat MP Tankhun Jitt-itsara, chairman of the Santi Pracha Dhamma Club, has renewed calls for authorities to intervene, filing a formal complaint with the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) on Monday. This follows the reappearance of online images depicting the boy as a spiritual leader and receiving veneration from adult followers.
The resurgence of online activity surrounding the group comes despite a ban issued by the Juvenile and Family Court on August 28, 2022. This court order explicitly prohibited the broadcast of photos or video clips showcasing the boy’s teachings and spiritual activities across all media platforms. Mr. Jitt-itsara contends that the recent online activity directly violates this order and demands immediate action. He presented the TCSD with evidence, including a photograph of the boy being revered by adult adherents during a recent religious ceremony.
Further fueling the controversy, Mr. Jitt-itsara also called for an investigation into a well-known actress who publicly expressed support for the boy and the group on her Facebook page on March 7. He alleges that the actress, who has reportedly made several such posts, may be complicit in criminal activity. Specifically, he suggests her actions could constitute assisting, supporting, or contributing to criminal conduct under Section 86 of the Criminal Code, and may also infringe upon the child’s rights.
This is not the first time the so-called “mind-connection cult” has attracted scrutiny. Last August, a court in Surat Thani ordered the boy’s parents to cease allowing him to preach and to seek psychiatric evaluation for their son, whom they claim possesses telepathic abilities. The court’s decision highlights concerns for the boy’s well-being and the potential exploitation he may face within the group.
The renewed online activity brings into sharp focus the complex intersection of religious freedom, child protection, and the potential for exploitation within unconventional spiritual movements. Mr. Jitt-itsara’s actions reflect a wider concern within Thai society regarding the potential harm these groups can pose, particularly to vulnerable individuals like children. He has expanded his efforts beyond the TCSD, filing complaints and submitting evidence to both the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the National Office of Buddhism (NOB). This multi-pronged approach underscores the seriousness with which these allegations are being viewed. The unfolding situation demands further investigation and highlights the need to carefully balance respecting religious expression with safeguarding children’s welfare. The authorities' response will likely set a precedent for future cases involving similar circumstances, shaping the ongoing dialogue on religious freedom and child protection in Thailand.
