- Bee Column resistance group admitted killing monk and disciple in eastern Shan state
- Accused monk of organizing pro-government garrisons and requesting military strikes
- 14 local organizations condemned the act as oppressive, demanding accountability
- Investigations pledged by Karenni coalition; Bee Column agrees to accept rulings
- Previous clergy killings and religious site damage highlight escalating violence
The Bee Column, a Myanmar resistance group aligned with the National Unity Government, has acknowledged its role in the deaths of Buddhist monk Dhamma Thara and his disciple Aik Pi. The incident occurred on March 4 at a monastery in Ohndaing village, located approximately 60 miles east of Naypyitaw. The group alleges the monk collaborated with the military to resettle displaced civilians as pro-government forces and coordinate artillery attacks.
Local social organizations sharply criticized the killings in a joint statement, disputing the guerrillas’ claims as baseless and counterproductive. Nang Soi Khan, a representative from one organization, emphasized Dhamma Thara’s humanitarian work with displaced communities. This contradiction underscores the complex role of religious figures in Myanmar’s conflict, where some monks champion democracy while others support military agendas.
The Karenni Interim Executive Council, a coalition of armed groups in Kayah state, announced plans for a thorough investigation to ensure justice. Regional analysts suggest this reflects growing pressure on resistance factions to demonstrate accountability, particularly after the military falsely blamed rebels for a 2023 monk’s death. Such measures aim to build international credibility amid allegations of wartime excesses.
Myanmar’s civil war has seen over 50 religious sites damaged since 2021, per independent monitors. The targeting of clergy—including February’s suspected killing of a Catholic priest—reveals how institutions become battlegrounds. Ultranationalist monks’ historical ties to the military complicate perceptions, fueling distrust between resistance forces and religious communities.
Experts note that resistance groups increasingly face dilemmas in balancing tactical strikes with moral legitimacy. The Bee Column’s acceptance of external rulings signals a shift toward structured governance, contrasting with the military’s denial of wrongdoing in past clergy deaths. However, fragmented command structures across resistance units risk inconsistent adherence to accountability protocols.
As Myanmar’ conflict enters its fourth year, the incident highlights challenges in reconciling local autonomy with centralized oversight. With 1.3 million displaced civilians often relying on religious networks for aid, attacks on clergy could further destabilize humanitarian efforts. International observers urge third-party investigations to prevent cycles of retaliatory violence.