According to military sources in Naypyidaw, the Myanmar military council has ordered the recitation of Ratana Sutta nine times over nine days at frontline military bases and battlefields across the country. The directive, which began on April 8 and continues until April 16, requires daily recitations at 7 PM in all military council-controlled department offices, ward and village administration offices, religious halls, monasteries, alms-giving associations, and civilian homes throughout the country. The military headquarters in Naypyidaw has specifically instructed all battalions, frontline bases, and field units to participate in these recitations.
Sources indicate that this directive applies uniformly to both civilian and military sectors, with no exceptions. While the military council claims that the nationwide emergency Ratana Sutta recitations are intended to ward off natural disasters such as fires, storms, floods, and earthquakes, analysts suggest that this religious initiative may be motivated by growing concerns over the current military situation. The military council faces increasing pressure from People’s Defense Force attacks and ethnic armed organizations across the country, resulting in significant military losses. Observers note that these religious activities may be an attempt to boost troop morale while the military council struggles to maintain control amid mounting resistance. The implementation of such religious practices across both civilian and military sectors reflects the regime’s efforts to maintain authority through traditional means while facing unprecedented challenges to its rule.
