Independent tribunal visits Kandhamal; Urges immediate intervention of govt.

The four–member independent tribunal that visited the violence wrecked Kandhamal in Orissa, last week, confirmed in its report that the Christian community have been seriously affected and is exigently in need of relief.

The tribunal, which contained eminent jurists, at a press conference, suggested that, the government provide enhanced security to the Christians, including protection to the relief camps and rehabilitation centers. It further urged officials to ensure strong roofs before monsoons and the need of inspecting systematic communal polarization.

While the tribunal contained two jurists, Justice Hospel Suresh, Justice Kolse Patil, it also included Director General of Police (retired), Gujarat, Mr. R. B Sreekumar and Ms Teesta Setalvad, a noted Human Rights activist.

Starting with an introduction to the visited areas, and the personal relationship with the people to acquire evidence and facts on the violence, Justice Patil told reporters at a Press Conference: "We in the tribunal found that the happiness of the people is being jeopardized by the religious political economic exploiters."

"One thing we noted prominently is that aid has not reached the victims. Churches, hostels, hospitals that are destroyed – they are as it is. Now we know the area is facing monsoons. By June, within these fifteen days, if aid is not reached, the condition of these victims will be pathetic. Many of them have no houses yet. Hundreds of families are either staying in a camp or with their relatives, wherever they got shelter."

Justice Patil further confirmed that evidence has been collected and state machinery has been contacted to assist investigation.

"The police have neither recorded the complaints of the people nor given them protection, and there this is the best example of why there is no law and order in the district," he continued.

Ms. Teesta Setalvad, who was also a part of the tribunal said, the government is yet to respond to the plights of the people; specially the victims who bear the extreme heat and might even face the monsoon, in the next two weeks.

"We do not understand how government could not recognise the urgency of doing something about it. Out first appeal to the government is that they should put aside technicalities and on a war footing ensure that every single house is built."

The noted Human Rights activist further suggested that the violence could be overcome if the government focus on genuine peace building and set up educational camps for the people.

Condemning the communal speeches and anti–Christian lectures taught by the Hindu radical leaders, Teesta urged the government to arrest those involved in spreading bigotry remarks and investigate on their telecasts and ashrams that instigate violence.

The outbreak of violence on 24th December 2007, led to the damage of over 600 Christian homes and 70 churches. At least 5000 Christians were displaced, while 9 were confirmed dead.

Although the government has sanctioned few installments from the relief fund, it is yet to take an active role in restituting people’s lives.