PM assures security to people in Orissa

Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh today stepped in, assuring security to everyone living in the Kandhamal district of Orissa state, after the escalating violence against the Christian community, caused huge damages.

The PM asserted that the Government of India will do all needful to safeguard the rights and liberties of all sections of society irrespective of their caste or community.

"Please be assured that we will not tolerate any efforts aimed at disturbing the communal harmony or secular fabric of our country," he said.

Orissa Government, meanwhile, announced a compensation of Rs one lakh to the family of the deceased.

Making the announcement, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik told reporters that those whose houses were destroyed would be provided accommodation under Indira Aawas Yojana.

Rs 10,000 would also be provided to people whose houses were partially damaged, he said.

Christian representatives in Delhi have demanded a CBI probe into the riots and have asked for compensation of 5 lakh rupees each to the families who have lost relatives during the riots.