PIL filed against forceful evacuation of victims from relief camps

Accusing Orissa state authorities for forcing 'evacuation' of people from relief camps, a PIL (Public Interest Litigation) has been filed by a victim, in the state High Court.

Kesamati Pradhan filed the PIL under Raikia police station of Kandhamal district. Affixed with affidavits of victims, the complainant condemned the evacuation of victims "without adequate life protection measures, relief and compensation".

According to a national daily, the 45-year-old woman had alleged that several relief camps have been closed and victims have been forced to leave by handing over a cheque of Rs 10,000, 50kg of rice and tarpaulin to replace their damaged homes.

The PIL was filed just days after the Supreme Court ordered the Orissa government to ensure protection of minorities.

At least 20,000 Christians are reported to be housed in the state-run relief camps, after the destruction of their homes during the persecution of Christians August, last year.