PM announces relief packages for Orissa victims

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has promised financial aid to victims of the recent anti–Christian violence in Orissa.

"The central government will provide assistance to family members of persons who have lost their lives and those victims who have been permanently incapacitated in the incidents in Orissa," he said.

In addition, "a package of assistance to the people who have suffered in the incidents, including those rendered destitute and homeless and support for repair of houses damaged, including orphanages, will be provided."

An official statement in New Delhi said Singh had spoken with Orissa Chief Minister Navin Patnaik and had asked the state to protect the Christians. He urged for an investigation on the rioting and apprehension of those responsible for the commotion.

"The central government has taken a very serious notice of the happenings in Orissa and he has personally spoken to the chief minister to ensure communal harmony and bring to book the culprits behind the violent incidents," it said.

The violence began after the killing of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati and his four associates on Aug. 23 in Kandhamal district. Although Maoists openly claimed the responsibility behind the murder, pro–Hindu groups have adamantly accused Christians in the incident.