Orissa CM lists 38 people killed in violence

The chief minister of Orissa Naveen Patnaik on Nov. 23 released the list of 38 people killed during the 2008 Kandhamal violence.

In his report to the State Assembly, Patnaik enumerated that 10 people were killed in G Udayagiri block, nine under Tikabali followed by eight in Raikia.

Chakapada and Baliguda blocks reported three deaths each while two each were killed in Tumudibandha and K Nuagaon.

The report also said that families of all 38 people were given financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each from the chief minister's relief fund (CMRF).

The family members of Santarai Digal of Dagapadar under Tikabali block, who died on September 27, 2008, however, could not get central assistance as their application was rejected by the Centre.

The report, meanwhile, confirmed that 3,327 houses were partially damaged and 1,313 houses were completely damaged in the riot.

In reply to a question, the chief minister acknowledged that Sangh Parivar was the brain behind the last year's violence.

He substantiated the statement adding that 85 of the arrested belonged to RSS, 321 of VHP and 118 to Bajrang Dal.

The commission of inquiry has so far received affidavits of 383 persons and examined at least 34 government officials, according to the report.