Orissa: Govt seeks more forces amid escalating violence

Despite the Orissa CM Naveen Patnaik's claim that anti–Christian rioting is in control, a worried government sought additional central para–military force to combat the violence that has spread to other districts in the state.

Three companies of CRPF and eight platoons of State Armed Police have been deployed at the curfew–bound town, Deputy Inspector General of police Sanjeev Panda said.

In Jeypore, it was reported that 11 persons including officials were injured in a mob attack over an objectionable graffiti.

"I spoke to Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil seeking 10 more companies of para–military forces. They are supposed to arrive from Guwahati," Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik told reporters after a two–day visit to Kandhamal

Patnaik asserted that those instigating violence must be punished and promised quick relief and rehabilitation for the affected people.

Meanwhile, the National Integration Council and All India Christian Council, through a press release, have asked the government to impose a ban of the proposed 'Kalash yatra' of the ashes of the slain VHP leaders for the fear, that it may flare religious sentiments and cause further trouble in the state.

The hatred unleashed by the criminals has destroyed 4,000 houses in 300 villages, driven 50,000 Christians to forests where they are now hiding out of fear for life, raped a nun and burnt a woman alive. Two pastors were among the 24 killed in violence, the statement read.

"The Christian community has already approached the Supreme Court on the issue and met the President of India, Prime Minister, union home minister and Orissa governor besides the UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, with the demand to end violence immediately and to stop the VHP from executing its plans of taking out 'Kalash Yatra' of the ashes of the slain leader through the troubled state," it added.

The Orissa government on Thursday assured the court that the government would not allow any procession in the state.