Chidambaram visits Kandhamal anti-Christian riot victims

(June 29, 2009) Union Home Minister Mr. Chidambaram visited the riot ravaged Kandhamal district of Orissa on Friday and apologized to the victims of riot for what had happened there last year. His visit filled the people especially the Christians in the area with hope and confidence. He expressed shock at what he witnessed there and offered adequate security and rehabilitation process for a life afresh.Visiting the relief camps he said, “I am sorry that certain things happened last year and you have been brought to these camps. But you must go back to your villages. I am here to remove your fear and assure you that the Centre and State Governments will offer all the necessary protection you need.” He visited the relief camps at Tikabali, Tiangia, Rahikola and Mandaika. He expressed regret over the incidents happened last August in Kandhamal and declared that the Government will take all the necessary steps to help the victims to return home and build a new life all over again. He also assured the people that the guilty will be punished. He said, “Christians live all over the country. Nobody has the right to question your identity or citizenship. Whoever has been found accused or involved in the violence, will be prosecuted and punished.” He blamed the state police for not offering enough protection for the minority community. He was appalled by the poor quality rice provided in the relief camps and the inadequate compensation paid. He promised the state Government that the paramilitary forces will stay till the last person leaves the relief camp.