Peaceful Christmas celebrated in Kandhamal

There was no untoward incident reported in Kandhamal on the occasion of Christmas.

Despite severe cold wave conditions, the riot-hit district peacefully celebrated the birth of Jesus with prayers and midnight services.

Police patrolling was intensified and all vehicles were checked at the entry and exit points.

"No incident of communal tension or violence was reported till now," said inspector-general of police (law and order) Arun Kumar Sarangi.

According to sources, about thousand special police forces were deployed in sensitive areas like G Udaygiri, Tikabali, Raikia and Baliguda.

Additionally, at least 150 police inspectors were pressed into service to ensure the protection of the vulnerable Christians and several thousand refugees.

After two years Christians were able to celebrate a "peaceful Christmas at all places in Kandhamal and other districts," said Archbishop of Orissa, Raphael Cheenath.

In 2007, violence broke out in the tribal district as Christians were preparing for the Christmas celebration.

Following this, the murder of a Hindu leader in August 2008 triggered large-scale attacks on Christians and their homes and places of worship.