Bangkok: The director of the Lampang Provincial Office of Buddhism has filed a complaint against an entertainment venue for allegedly insulting Buddhism. This follows an incident where a singer dressed as a monk performed a satirical act mimicking "Sami Choti" at a local venue. Local authorities are also preparing to press three additional charges.

According to Thai News Agency, the scandal arose after a video of the performance, featuring the song "Om Phra Ma Phut" (Swearing by a Monk), was posted on the venue's Facebook page. It was later deleted. Mr. Kanungkit Phromnuchanon, Director of the Lampang Provincial Office of Buddhism, lodged a complaint with the Lampang City Police Station. He cited two criminal offenses: insulting religion under Section 206 and impersonating a monk under Section 208 of the Criminal Code. Mr. Phromnuchanon urged Buddhists to focus on the teachings of Buddha and not let such disrespectful acts erode their faith.

Authorities plan to file additional charges against the venue for operating procedure violations, obscene performances, and breaches of the Computer Crime Act related to disseminating obscene material online.

The controversy extended to an entertainment venue in Koh Kha District, Lampang Province, where a similar video was posted. The singer involved responded to criticism by claiming the saffron cloth used was merely a tablecloth. The Lampang Provincial Office of Buddhism is investigating potential charges.

The Lampang Buddhist Office recently issued a statement urging cooperation from entertainment venues, artists, and the public to refrain from using religious symbols disrespectfully. They called for collective efforts to protect Buddhism and maintain its integrity in Thai society.