HURFOM found that there were two types of fund collections.
The first was a compulsory order made to each household in the eight designated villages to provide the specific funds. The second was a letter of intimidation to prominent rich individuals or businessman.
On the 6th of April 2010, written orders stamped with Kyaik Don Subtownship Office seals were sent to the village headmen demanding a collection of funds, designated “the welfare fund.” Township authorities stated the Buddhist water festival as the reason for collecting such unds.
This fund collection came about during a period of unemployment and a hike in commodity and gasoline prices. Many households had to borrow money in order to fulfill the fund donation request. Some vehicle owners, who were in a particularly difficult situation after having to pay increased gas prices, requested the ability to pay as much as they could, but were Alist of rules and restrictions during the Buddhist Water Festival.