User talk:70.57.161.43 and Religious violence in Odisha: Difference between pages

Page contents not supported in other languages.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Difference between pages)
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
 
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{POV|date=September 2008}}
{{Cleanup|date=September 2008}}
[[Image:India Orissa locator map.svg|thumb|Orissa Map|180px|Indian state of [[Orissa]]]]
'''Religious violence in Orissa''' has surfaced repeatedly in recent times, increasing in severity. These outbreaks have been between the [[Hinduism|Hindu]] and [[Christianity|Christian]] communities, with Christians suffering from the greater part of the violence. Tensions have centred on issues such as tribal differences, economic challenges and religious conversion.


==Religious conversion==
== October 2008 ==


Religious disharmony arose even before [[Indian independence|1947]] on the issue of religious conversion. Conversions have been legislated by the provisions of the Freedom of Religion Acts (acts replicated in numerous other parts through India). Orissa was the first province of independent India to enact legislation on religious conversions. The Orissa Freedom of Religion Act, [[1967]], stipulates that no person shall “convert or attempt to convert, either directly or otherwise, any person from one religious faith to another by the use of force or by inducement or by any fraudulent means”.<ref name="religionact">{{cite web|url=http://indianchristians.in/news/images/resources/pdf/orissa_freedom_of_religion_act-text_only.pdf|title=Orissa Freedom of Religion Act, 1967|accessdate=2008-09-18|format=PDF}}</ref><ref name="religionrules">{{cite web|url=http://indianchristians.in/news/images/resources/pdf/orissa_freedom_of_religion_rules-text_only.pdf|title=Orissa Freedom of Religion Rules, 1989|accessdate=2008-09-18|format=PDF}}</ref> Christian missions have been active in Orissa among the tribals and [[OBC|backward Hindu castes]] from the early years of the previous century. Christian missionaries are usually more active in poorer areas of the country where people are less educated. Hindus have alleged that the increase in the number of Christians in Orissa has been a result of exploitation of illiteracy and impoverishment by the missionaries in contravention of the law, instead of [[free will]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flonnet.com/stories/20080926251902600.htm |title=Conversion debate |publisher=Flonnet.com |date= |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref><ref name="orissa1">{{cite web|url=http://www.orissa.gov.in/p%26c/ |title=Planning &amp; Coordination |publisher=Orissa.gov.in |date= |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref> The Orissa government's records reveal the unimaginably huge funds received from abroad by the missions through overt channels. The transactions through covert channels are not available to public scrutiny.<ref name="orissa1"/> The Census of India shows that Christians constituted 75597 of the population of Kandhmal district in 1991. In the 2001 Census, their population had gone up to 117950{{cn}}.
[[Image:Information.png|25px]] Welcome to Wikipedia. The <span class="plainlinks">[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Hills_(Washington)?diff=244426804 recent edit]</span> you made to [[:Black Hills (Washington)]] has been reverted, as it appears to be unconstructive. Use the [[Wikipedia:Sandbox|sandbox]] for testing; if you believe the edit was constructive, ensure that you provide an informative [[Help:Edit summary|edit summary]]. You may also wish to read the [[Wikipedia:Introduction|introduction to editing]]. Thank you. <!-- Template:uw-huggle1 --> [[User:Soliloquial|Soliloquial]] ([[User talk:Soliloquial|talk]]) 19:16, 10 October 2008 (UTC)

==Staines killing==
[[Graham Staines]] was an [[Australian]] missionary working with the [[Evangelical Missionary Society of Mayurbhanj]], an Australian missionary society. On the night of January 22, 1999, he had attended a proselytisation meeting of Christians in [[Keonjhar]] district. In the night he was sleeping in his [[station wagon]] when it was set afire. Graham and his two sons, ten-year-old Philip and six-year-old Timothy, were killed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7166297.stm|title=BBC NEWS | South Asia | Indian minister in Orissa visit|date=2008-01-02|publisher=BBC|language=English|accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref>.
The Wadhwa Commission ruled out the direct involvement of any organisation in the killings.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl2021/stories/20031024003902400.htm|title=The Staines case verdict|date=2003-10-10|publisher=Frontline|accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref>

On September 22, 2003 an appointed court of the Central Bureau of Investigation sentenced Dara Singh to death and 12 others to life imprisonment for the murders.<ref>http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl2021/stories/20031024003902400.htm The Staines case verdict</ref> On May 2005, the Orissa High Court commuted Singh's sentence to life imprisonment.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/2005/may/19staines.htm |title=Staines murder: Dara Singh's death rap set aside |publisher=Rediff.com |date= |accessdate=2008-09-19}}</ref>

==December 2007==
===Kandhmal background===
The Kandhamal district has 600,000 people of which approximately 120,000 are Christians.<ref>[http://www.censusindia.gov.in/Census_Data_2001/Census_Data_Online/Social_and_cultural/Religion.aspx Census India2001]</ref> Kandhamal has two different communities - the Kandha tribe and Paana caste. The Kandha tribe is 80% of the population and the rest belong to the [[scheduled caste]] [[Paana]]. The Panas have converted to Christianity in large numbers and prospered financially <ref name=" IBNCHRISTIAN">{{cite web |title=Caste, tribe, conversion make Orissa district volatile|url=http://www.ibnlive.com/news/caste-tribe-conversion-make-orissa-district-volatile/55272-3.html}}</ref>. Pana Christians have been accused of harassing tribal womenfolk and stealing tribal land with dubious certificates<ref>[http://www.dailypioneer.com/126959/Reverse-scene-in-Kandhamal.html Reverse scene in Kandhamal] The Pioneer - October 11, 2008</ref>

===2007 violence===
Church authorities informed the Sub-Collector that the Kui Samaj had given a call for a bandh on 25-26 December to press their demands regarding various issues. They requested the district authorities to remain alert and preempt any trouble. On 23 December 2007, however, Christians of [[Brahmanigoan]] village tried to erect a Christmas gate in front of a Hindu place of worship. The incident caused clashes between the Christian and Hindu communities.
<ref name="ref1">{{citeweb | url= http://ncm.nic.in/pdf/orissa%20report.pdf | title= Report of the NCM visit to Orissa, 6-8 January 2008 |publisher=NCM |accessdate = 2008-08-26|format=PDF}}</ref>

[[Swami Lakshamanananda]], a respected Hindu Guru, visited the site and was assaulted by gunmen. This led to further clashes between Hindus and Christians.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/story/353136.html |title=Slain vhp man was conversion king |publisher=Indianexpress.com |date= |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref>.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.newsweek.com/id/81970/page/1 | title = Christians fear attacks by Indian Hindus | Publisher = newsweek | article date = 2007-12-29 | accessdate = 2008-01-01}}</ref>

The authorities imposed a curfew in order to control the situation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/holnus/000200712272184.htm|title = Violence continues at Orissa's Kandhamal district|Publisher = The Hindu|accessdate = 2008-01-01 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/27/stories/2007122750280100.htm | title = Curfew continues in four Orissa towns | Publisher = The Hindu | accessdate = 2008-01-01 }}</ref>

Concerned with rising violence,after their assault on the Swami, some [[Dalit Christian]] leaders lodged a complaint with the Police for protection. <ref>{{citeweb | title=Vandals in Orissa| url=http://www.asianage.com/presentation/leftnavigation/opinion/op-ed/vandals-in-orissa.aspx | publisher= Asian Age | accessdate- January 9, 2008}}</ref>

The outbreak of violence started on 24th December, 2007 at 8.00 a.m. at Bamunigam village. Some Hindu activists.<ref> >{{citeweb | url = http://tehelka.com/story_main37.asp?filename=Ne190108next_stop.asp |publisher=Tehalka |title=Tehelka:: Free. Fair. Fearless:Next Stop Orissa|accessdate = 2008-09-08}} </ref> forcefully removed the Christmas decoration which some local Christian businessmen had put up as a preparation for Christmas, on the very site used by the Hindus to celebrate the Durga Puja festival in October.
<ref name="ref1"/> <ref>{{citeweb | url= http://ncm.nic.in/pdf/orissa%20report.pdf | title= Report of the NCM visit to Orissa, 6-8 January 2008 |publisher=NCM |accessdate = 2008-08-26|format=PDF}} </ref> This was followed by violence between the two groups.

By December 29, 2007 many persons of both faiths, mainly Christians, had to move to government-run relief camps to avoid attacks. {{Fact|date=September 2008}}Three persons were killed: one Christian and two non-Christians, as per the subsequent NCM Report.

By December 30, rioting was got under control by the security forces such as the [[CRPF]]. The total number of security personnel deployed was about 2,500 police and paramilitary. The total number of people taking shelter in relief camps increased to 1200. <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.zeenews.com/articles.asp?rep=2&aid=415899&archisec=REG | title = Sunday services held amid tight security in Orissa | article date = 2007-12-30 |accessdate = 2008-01-02}}</ref>

On Jan 1, 2008 further violence was reported at several places. Police said at least 20 houses and shops were torched at Phiringia, Khajuripada, Gochapada and Brahmanigaon by rioters on Tuesday night (January 1, 2008) <ref name="indianexpress1">{{ cite web | publisher= Press Trust of India as seen in Indian Express | url=http://www.indianexpress.com/story/257086.html |title= Fresh violence in Kandhamal, Patil promises compensation | accessdate= 2006-01-03}}</ref>

Jacob Pradhan, general secretary of the Kandhamal district chapter of the Christian Endeavour Union, stated that around 100 houses belonging to Hindus were burnt in Brahmanigaon, Godapur, Barakhama and some other villages on December 26 and 27. He suspected that these houses were torched by sections of “misguided Christians” possibly incited by Maoists. <ref>http://www.compassdirect.org/en/display.php?page=news&lang=en&length=long&idelement=5210 INDIA: MAOISTS SAID TO RECRUIT VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE</ref><ref>http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080038179 NGO-Maoist link in Kandhamal</ref>.

===Response===
The Prime Minister of India [[Manmohan Singh]] and other political parties condemned the violence.<ref>{{cite web|Publisher=The Hindu|url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/27/stories/2007122750280100.htm|title=Curfew continues in four Orissa towns|accessdate=2008-01-01}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.zeenews.com/articles.asp?aid=415898&archisec=NAT|title=Zee News - PM assures of restoring peace in Orissa|date = 2007-12-30|accessdate=2008-01-02}}</ref>
Taking serious note of the attacks on churches and Christians in Orissa, the [[National Commission for Minorities]], a body comprising of only Non-Hindu members, sought a report from the state government on the violence in four towns of [[Kandhamal district]] <ref>{{Cite web | url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Orissa_violence_NCM_seeks_report/articleshow/2655416.cms | title = Orissa violence: NCM seeks report | date = 2007-12-27 | accessdate = 2008-01-01 }}</ref>

Organisations such as the American [[Human Rights Watch]] alleged that the December 2007 violence was a continuation of an "anti Christian" campaign being run by right-winged Hindu groups for several years, and that government officials had been ignoring the risk to the Christian community. <ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200712291638.htm | title = HRW seeks end to Hindu-Christian violence in Orissa | publisher = The Hindu | date = 2007-12-29 | accessdate = 2008-01-01}} </ref>

Union Home minister [[Shivraj Patil]] visited relief camps and promised compensation to the victims of the communal riot. He asked the Orissa Government, led by Chief Minister [[Naveen Patnaik]], to probe the riots instead of entirely depending on the reports of the judicial commission of inquiry. <ref name="indianexpress1"/>

The Orissa government ordered a Judicial enquiry on the violence. <ref>{{cite web | url=http://in.news.yahoo.com/071228/43/6oyhn.html | title = Retired judge to probe Orissa riots as police firing kills four| publisher = IANS as reported on Yahoo! News | articledate = 2007-12-28 | accessdate= 2008-01-03}}</ref>



== August 2008 violence ==
===Swami Lakshmanananda Murder===
On the evening of Saturday, [[August 23]], [[2008]], the octogenarian [[Swami Lakshmanananda]] Saraswati, a leader of Vishwa Hindu Parishad was killed at his Jalespata ashram in [[Kandhamal]] district in [[Orissa]], along with four others; three fellow leaders of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and a boy.<ref>[http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/PoliticsNation/VHP_leader_four_others_shot_dead/articleshow/3397757.cms Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader, four others shot dead] The Economic Times - August 24, 2008</ref> The attackers, estimated at thirty gunmen, were originally suspected of being Maoist insurgents. Both the manner of attack and a letter found at the attack provided the basis for the initial suspicion. The government announced a special investigative probe into the attack.<ref>[http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200808241551.htm Orissa announces judicial probe into murder of VHP leaders] The Hindu - August 24, 2008</ref><ref>[http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080062715 Protests in Orissa over killing of VHP leader] NDTV - August 24, 2008</ref>

However, Hindu groups in the state, including the BJP, blamed Christians for killing Lakshmananand. They cited Lakshmanananda's claims that Christians were trying to eliminate him for his opposition to conversion, and had attacked him eight times before. He was regularly receiving death threats and the last threat letter had been submitted to the Police only the day before the murder.{{Fact|date=September 2008}} <!---This does not appear to me to be a credible reference. A NGO, their report published on a blog site? I don't think so.<ref>http://bharatam1.googlepages.com/kandhamal.pdf Justice on Trial report on Kandhmal violence </ref> --->

On August 28, a letter of denial was received by a some [[News media|media]] outlets, the VHP office in the [[Gajapati]] District of Orissa and the Bajrang Dal from a Maoist group. While the letter denied that the Central Committee of the Kotagarha branch of the Maoists had approved the attack, it claimed that some Maoists may have been bribed by Christians to launch the attack.<ref>[http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/29/stories/2008082952080300.htm Maoists deny role in VHP leader’s murder] The Hindu - August 29, 2008]</ref> Sources within the police force have said that Maoists could have carried out the operation to appease their Christian support base.<ref>[http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080063999 Kandhmal: Mystery surrounds Swami's death] NDTV - September 4, 2008 </ref> Soon after the appearance of the aforementioned letter, Azad, a leader of the Maoist People's Liberation Guerrilla Army, claimed responsibility for the murder of Lakshmanananda. Azad was suspected by the police of leading the attack himself. <ref name ="ToIaug30"> {{cite web
| title = Maoists claim they killed 'fascist' VHP leader in Orissa
| publisher = [[Times of India]]
| date = 30 August 2008
| language = English
| url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Maoists_claim_Orissa_killing/articleshow/3423908.cms
| accessdate = 2008-08-31 }}</ref> On September 9, 2008 the Maoists, who work underground, made an official press release claiming responsibility for the killing of Lakshmanananda. <ref name ="Maoistrelease"> {{cite web
| title = CPI Maoists claim VHP leader's killing
| publisher = NDTV
| date = September 9, 2008
| language = English
| url = http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080064612&ch=9/9/2008%209:16:00%20AM
| accessdate = 2008-09-09
}}</ref> Many Maoist sympathizers of south Orissa had initially denied the role of CPI-Maoist in the murder of VHP leaders that sparked off communal violence in Kandhamnal district. <ref>http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/29/stories/2008082952080300.htm</ref> However, several Maoist leaders took responsibility of the killing Lashmanananda on account of Lashmanananda's alleged forced reconversions of Christians. [[Communist Party of India (Maoist)]] leader Sabyasachi Panda claimed that they killed Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati and four of his disciples at his Jalespeta ashram on 23 August
<ref>{{cite press release
| title = Maoists claim responsibility for killing of VHP leader
| publisher = The Hindu
| date = October 5, 2008
| language = English
| url = http://www.hindu.com/2008/10/05/stories/2008100560400800.htm
| accessdate = 2008-10-05
}}</ref>
<ref>{{cite press release
| title = We killed Swami, Maoists say again
| publisher = The Times of India
| date = October 6, 2008
| language = English
| url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/We_killed_Swami_Maoists_say_again/articleshow/3562518.cms
| accessdate = 2008-10-05
}}</ref> under pressure from the Christians, who form a majority of Maoist cadres in Orissa<ref>[http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200810051766.htm 'Majority of Maoist supporters in Orissa are Christians'] [[The Hindu]] - October 5, 2008</ref>. On Monday, October 6, 2008, the Orissa police announced they arrested two Christians in connection with the murder of the Swami. <ref>[http://in.reuters.com/article/topNews/idINIndia-35824220081006 Orissa arrests 2 Christians for Hindu leader's murder] Reuters India - October 6, 2008</ref>.

===Religious Violence===

After the killing of Swami Lakshmananda, the [[VHP]] called for a statewide shutdown on Monday, [[August 25]], [[2008]]. On the same day, rioters attacked a Christian orphanage at Khuntpalli village in [[Bargarh]] district. An employee and prospective convert of the orphanage, a local Hindu, was killed when the orphanage was set on fire.<ref>http://www.asianews.it:80/view4print.php?l=en&art=13056</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.in.msn.com/national/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1651054 |title=VHP activists set fire to orphanage, burn nun to death in Orissa - National News – News – MSN India - News |publisher=News.in.msn.com |date= |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200808261929.htm |title=The Hindu News Update Service |publisher=Hindu.com |date= |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release
| title = VHP bandh turns violent in Orissa, churches attacked
| publisher = All India Christian Council AICC
| date = [[26 August]] [[2008]]
| format = html
| language = English
| url = http://indianchristians.in/news/content/view/2327/45/
| accessdate = 2008-08-27
| quote = }}</ref> On the same day in Kanjemandi a Hindu mob found a a Catholic priest, Father Thomas Chellantharayil and a nun hiding in a house from the mob. The mob attempted to force the priest to participate as they raped the nun <ref>http://www.outlookindia.com/pti_news.asp?id=616172</ref>; at his refusal, he was assaulted and covered in kerosene. While a police complaint was lodged soon afterwards, no action was taken for over a month, adding to accusations of police misconduct. Eventually, four men were arrested for the attack, and a senior police office suspended over the delayed investigation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/09/30/stories/2008093058040100.htm |title= Nun was gang raped and priest brutally assaulted in Kandhamal |publisher=The Hindu |date= September 30, 2008 |accessdate=2008-10-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7649984.stm |title= Four arrested over India nun rape |publisher=BBC News |date= |accessdate=2008-10-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080067507 |title= Medical reports confirm Kandhmal nun raped | publisher = NDTV | accessdate = 2008-10-04
}}</ref>

The statewide protest by the VHP and [[Bajrang Dal]] turned violent and was retaliated to by Christians. Amit Sharma of the [[VHP]] said Hindu people in the area had taken the death of the Swami "very seriously, and now they are going to pay them back."<ref>{{cite journal | title = Indian state erupts in violence after Hindu shot
| publisher = CNN Asia
| date = [[27 August]] [[2008]]
| format = html
| language = English
| url = http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/08/27/india.religion.violence/index.html
| accessdate = 2008-08-29 }}</ref>
A curfew was imposed in all towns in Kandhamal. Despite this, violence continued in Phulbani, Tumudibandh, Baliguda, Udaygiri, Nuagaon and Tikabali towns. The situation was so volatile that Minister of State for Home, [[Prakash Jaiswal]], and other [[Congress Party]] leaders who had arrived to visit the riot hit areas, were told by the state government that they could not do so because their presence might provoke the crowds, and had to return to [[New Delhi]].{{Fact|date=September 2008}}

By August 29, 2008 at least 20 people were killed and 3000 people were reported to be living in government run relief camps. 1000 homes had been set on fire. {{Fact|date=September 2008}} Many others fled into the jungle. All nine towns in the district were under a curfew, and the police had license to shoot. <ref>{{cite press release
| title = Is violence affecting India's image
| publisher = NDTV
| date = 28 August 2008
| language = English
| url =http://www.ndtv.com/debate/showdebate.aspshow=1&story_id=476&template=kandhmal&category=| accessdate = 2008-08-29
}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release
| title = Thousands homeless after Hindu-Christian violence in India
| publisher = International Herald Tribune
| date = 29 August 2008
| language = English
| url =http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/08/29/asia/29india.php
| accessdate = 2008-08-29
}}</ref>

On [[August 31]], 2008 violence continued in several parts of the state. As a result curfew was imposed in Jeypore town of Orissa's Koraput district. Five police personnel were injured in mob violence. The state government sought additional paramilitary forces to combat the continuing violence. <ref>{{cite press release
| publisher = Press Trust of India
| date = August 31, 2008
| language = English
| url = http://www.ptinews.com/pti/ptisite.nsf/$all/734B313145EEC546652574B6005AC8B5
| accessdate = 2008-08-31
}}</ref>

On [[September 1]], 2008 [[Government of Orissa]] claimed the situation was under control. However, 558 houses and 17 churches and prayer halls were burnt in riots. 543 houses were burnt in the worst hit Kandhamal district. 12,539 people were fed in 10 relief camps, 783 people got the facilities in two relief camps in Rayagada district. In all, 12 companies of para-military forces, 24 platoons of Orissa State Armed Police, two sections of Armed Police Reserve forces and two teams of Special Operation Group (SOG) were deployed to control the riots.<ref name="558 houses, 17 places of worship torched during riot: Orissa govt">{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/558_houses_17_places_of_worship_torched_during_riot_Orissa_govt/rssarticleshow/3431842.cms|title=558 houses, 17 places of worship torched during riot: Orissa govt|date=1 September 2008|publisher=Times of India|accessdate=2008-09-01}}</ref> On September 4th, 2008 in Tikabali, Kandhmal over 300 Hindu [[tribal]] [[women]] attacked a relief camp for the Christian riot victims. The rioters were protesting christians' having provisions in relief camps while the Hindu community was not so provided.

On September 7, 2008 [[VHP]] leader Praveen Togadia announced that an All-India agitation would be launched if the killers of Lakshmananda were not arrested.<ref>{{cite press release
| title = Orissa violence: VHP threatens nationwide stir
| Author = IANS
| publisher = Economic Times
| date = 7 September, 2008<!--, 2128 hrs IST-->
| language = English
| url = http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/PoliticsNation/Orissa_violence_VHP_threatens_nationwide_stir/articleshow/3456001.cms | accessdate = 2008-09-07
}}</ref> The Church in turn demanded dismissal of the state government.{{Fact|date=October 2008}}

On 15 September 2008, [[NDTV]] reported attacks on two hindu temples in Orissa's [[Sundergarh]] district. One was attacked on the night of 14 September, and the other 2 weeks earlier.<ref>[http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080065494 NDTV]</ref>

On 3 October 2008, two more Christians were killed and a Christian nun who was hiding in a Hindu family was allegedly raped. <ref>[http://www.ibnlive.com/news/raped-in-orissa-nun-recalls-nightmare/75049-3.html CNN-IBN]</ref> <ref>[http://www.onenewsnow.com/Persecution/Default.aspx?id=277500 Onenewsnow]</ref>

=== Political Fallout ===

The ruling government of Orissa, headed by [[Chief Minister]] [[Naveen Patnaik]], was a coalition of the [[BJP]] and the [[Biju Janata Dal]] (BJD). In the 147-member state assembly the BJD-BJP combine has 93 members, 32 of whom are from the BJP.

Some BJP legislators blamed the government for not providing adequate protection to Saraswati, despite other attempts on his life. They called for withdrawing support from the government, which would lead to its collapse.

On Wednesday September 4, 2008, India's Supreme Court issued an order on a petition filed by [[Archbishop]] Raphael Cheenath seeking a CBI enquiry and dismissal of the state government. The order asked the Orissa state government to report on steps taken to stop a wave of communal rioting that has claimed at least 16 lives. The supreme court also asked the Naveen Patnayak government to file an affidavit by September 4 {{Fact|date=September 2008}} explaining the circumstances under which it allowed VHP leader Praveen Togadia to carry out a procession with the Saraswati's ashes, an act that would clearly inflame further communal tension.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newstrackindia.com/newsdetails/14995 |title=SC directs Orissa govt to file affidavit on violence |publisher=Newstrackindia.com |date= |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5g2HKL26IMn2CB3GEE2igPxWvkL0A |title=AFP: India court demands report on anti-Christian violence |publisher=Afp.google.com |author=Sep 3, 2008 |date=September 3, 2008 |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref>
Togadia said that he never proposed to carry the "ashes" of Saraswati and alleged that Archbishop Raphael Cheenath had "lied under oath to the apex court". The dead body of Swamiji was not cremated as his was a samadhi, where a holy man is entombed on death. So the claims of the 'asthi-kalash yatra' (carrying of ashes), were not true.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/holnus/002200809050344.htm |title=The Hindu News Update Service |publisher=Thehindu.com |date= |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref>

=== Response ===
{{IND}}'s Prime Minister [[Manmohan Singh]] called the Orissa violence a "shame" and offered all help from the Centre to end the communal clashes and restore normalcy. He said he would speak to Orissa chief minister Naveen Patnaik to urge him to take all necessary steps to end the violence.
<ref>http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/PM_calls_Orissa_violence_a_shame/articleshow/3419084.cms{{cite press release
| title = PM calls Orissa violence a 'shame'
| publisher = Times of India
| date = 29 August 2008
| language = English
| url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/PM_calls_Orissa_violence_a_shame/articleshow/3419084.cms
| accessdate = 2008-08-29
| quote =
}}</ref>
<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ivarta.com/columns/OL_040430.htm |title=The clout of Sonia Gandhi |publisher=Ivarta.com |date= |accessdate=2008-09-18}}</ref>

The church network - including the [[Catholic Bishops' Conference of India]], the [[Evangelical Fellowship of India]] and the [[National Council of Churches in India]] - organized for all Christian institutions to remain closed on [[August 29]], [[2008]] in protest. This led to accusations of misusing educational institutions for politicking.{{Fact|date=September 2008}}

{{VAT}} On Wednesday [[August 27]], [[2008]], [[Pope Benedict XVI]] condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with the priests and nuns being victimized. <ref>http://in.reuters.com/article/topNews/idINIndia-35197320080827{{cite press release
| title = Pope deplores anti-Christian violence in Orissa
| publisher = Reuters India
| date = August 27, 2008 <!--3:22pm IST-->
| language = English
| url = http://in.reuters.com/article/topNews/idINIndia-35197320080827
| accessdate = 2008-08-28
| quote =
}}</ref> He "firmly condemned" the violence and called upon Indian religious and civil authorities "to work together to restore peaceful co-existence and harmony between the different religious communities." In doing so he said: "I learnt with great sorrow the information concerning the violence against the Christian community in Orissa which broke out after the reprehensible assassination of the Hindu leader, Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati. This led to derisive remarks in the press about the Italian origins of Sonia Gandhi, a Catholic, whose UPA alliance rules India from New Delhi."<ref>http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080063156&ch=8/27/2008%207:43:00%20PM Pope 'firmly condemns' violence in Orissa</ref>

[[Image:Hrw logo.gif|left|25px|]]

[[Human Rights Watch]], a US-based outfit, expressed extreme dismay at the mob violence against [[Christians]] instigated by the [[VHP]]. The organization also expressed concern at the state government's lack of action following the Christmas 2007 violence. <ref>{{cite press release
| title = World Leaders Urged to Condemn Violence in Orissa
| publisher = Human Rights Watch
| date = 28 August 2008
| language = English
| url =http://hrw.org/english/docs/2008/08/28/india19711.htm
| accessdate = 2008-08-29
}}</ref>

{{ITA}}'s Foreign Ministry called on India's ambassador to demand ‘incisive action’ to prevent further attacks against Christians.<ref>{{cite press release
| title = Italy calls Indian envoy over attacks on Christians
| Author = Reuters
| publisher = Indian Express
| date = 28 August 2008
| language = English
| url =http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Italy-calls-Indian-envoy-over-attacks-on-Christians/354556/
| accessdate = 2008-09-02
}}</ref> This invited protests from the Indian media as uncalled-for interference.{{Fact|date=September 2008}}

The [[National Human Rights Commission of India]](NHRC) sought a report from the Orissa government on the ongoing religious violence in the state.
<ref>{{cite press release
| title = NHRC issues notice to Orissa over violence | Author = Press Trust of India
| publisher = Times of India
| date = 29 August 2008
| language = English
| url =http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080063386
| accessdate = 2008-08-30
}}</ref>

{{USA}} Commission on International Religious Freedom ([[USCIRF]]) an independent federal agency advising the US administration has demanded the Indian authorities take immediate steps to quell the violence and order a probe to find out the perpetrators of the attacks.

"The continuing attacks targeting Christians represent the second major outbreak of religious violence in Orissa since December which underlines the pressing need for Indian government to develop preventive strategies," the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) said. "Both state and central governments are responsible to protect every person's right to religious freedom, including members of religious minorities, as guaranteed in international human rights instruments," Commission Chair Felice D Gaer said in a statement.
<ref>{{cite press release
| title = USCIRF Urges Decisive Action by Central Government to Stop Communal Violence in Orissa
| Author = USCIRF
| publisher = USCIRF
| date = 3 September 2008
| language = English
| url =http://www.uscirf.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2261&Itemid=1
| accessdate = 2008-09-04
}}</ref>

{{EU}} expressed concern over the violence against Christians in Orissa and hoped that the ruling government would bring the perpetrators to justice. <ref>{{cite press release
| title = India should bring Orissa violence perpetrators to book: EU
| Author = IANS
| publisher = Economic Times
| date = 28 September 2008
| language = English
| url = http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/PoliticsNation/Punish_Orissa_violence_perpetrators/articleshow/3536732.cms
| accessdate = 2008-10-04
}}</ref>

In a press release made on September 21st, The National Commission for Minorities blamed the [[Sangh Parivar]] and [[Bajrang Dal]] for the communal violence in states of Karnataka and Orissa. Shafi Qureshi, member of the NCM team stated that the NCM teams had determined activists of Bajrang Dal were involved in these attacks in both in state of Orissa and Karnataka. Condemning the attack on churches in Kandhamal and other areas of Orissa and in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Chikmagalur and Mangalore in Karnataka, the Commission stressed the need for immediate confidence building measures to allay the fear from the minds of the minorities in both states of Orissa and Karnataka.
<ref>{{cite press release
| title = NCM blames Bajrang Dal for Karnataka, Orissa violence
| Author = PTI
| publisher = PTI
| date = 21 September 2008
| language = English
| url = http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/0/5365C77C003E62FC652574CB00232C24?OpenDocument
| accessdate = 2008-09-21
}}</ref>

== References ==
<!-- DO NOT ADD A SCROLL-BAR TO THESE REFERENCES-IT BREAKS THE FORMATTING -->
<!-- Don't add <div class="references-small"> either, this is included in the template already -->
{{reflist|2}}

== External links ==
{{commons|Orissa}}
* [http://www.ibnlive.com/videos/72250/08_2008/ftn2608_1/blind-faith-fragile-peace-blown-to-bits-in-orissa.html Blind Faith? Fragile Peace Blown to Bits", CNN-IBN debate, Aug. 26, 2008, 10 p.m. broadcast time IST]
* [http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122028526442787519.html?mod=googlenews_wsj Indian State Struck by Rioting, WSJ article]
* [http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSBOM142319 Christians cower from Hindu backlash in India's east, Reuters article, Sept 03,2008]
* [http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/04/world/asia/04christians.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1 Violence in India Is Fueled by Religious and Economic Divide, New York Times,Sept 03,2008]
*[http://in.reuters.com/news/pictures/cslideshow?sj=200809011203145.js&sn=Violence Pictures of Violence in Orissa, Reuters]
*[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/04/world/asia/04christians.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1 Violence in India Is Fueled by Religious and Economic Divide, New York Times,Sept 03,2008]

[[Category:Religious violence in India|Orissa violence]]
[[Category:Hindu history]]

Revision as of 20:57, 10 October 2008

Indian state of Orissa

Religious violence in Orissa has surfaced repeatedly in recent times, increasing in severity. These outbreaks have been between the Hindu and Christian communities, with Christians suffering from the greater part of the violence. Tensions have centred on issues such as tribal differences, economic challenges and religious conversion.

Religious conversion

Religious disharmony arose even before 1947 on the issue of religious conversion. Conversions have been legislated by the provisions of the Freedom of Religion Acts (acts replicated in numerous other parts through India). Orissa was the first province of independent India to enact legislation on religious conversions. The Orissa Freedom of Religion Act, 1967, stipulates that no person shall “convert or attempt to convert, either directly or otherwise, any person from one religious faith to another by the use of force or by inducement or by any fraudulent means”.[1][2] Christian missions have been active in Orissa among the tribals and backward Hindu castes from the early years of the previous century. Christian missionaries are usually more active in poorer areas of the country where people are less educated. Hindus have alleged that the increase in the number of Christians in Orissa has been a result of exploitation of illiteracy and impoverishment by the missionaries in contravention of the law, instead of free will.[3][4] The Orissa government's records reveal the unimaginably huge funds received from abroad by the missions through overt channels. The transactions through covert channels are not available to public scrutiny.[4] The Census of India shows that Christians constituted 75597 of the population of Kandhmal district in 1991. In the 2001 Census, their population had gone up to 117950[citation needed].

Staines killing

Graham Staines was an Australian missionary working with the Evangelical Missionary Society of Mayurbhanj, an Australian missionary society. On the night of January 22, 1999, he had attended a proselytisation meeting of Christians in Keonjhar district. In the night he was sleeping in his station wagon when it was set afire. Graham and his two sons, ten-year-old Philip and six-year-old Timothy, were killed.[5]. The Wadhwa Commission ruled out the direct involvement of any organisation in the killings.[6]

On September 22, 2003 an appointed court of the Central Bureau of Investigation sentenced Dara Singh to death and 12 others to life imprisonment for the murders.[7] On May 2005, the Orissa High Court commuted Singh's sentence to life imprisonment.[8]

December 2007

Kandhmal background

The Kandhamal district has 600,000 people of which approximately 120,000 are Christians.[9] Kandhamal has two different communities - the Kandha tribe and Paana caste. The Kandha tribe is 80% of the population and the rest belong to the scheduled caste Paana. The Panas have converted to Christianity in large numbers and prospered financially [10]. Pana Christians have been accused of harassing tribal womenfolk and stealing tribal land with dubious certificates[11]

2007 violence

Church authorities informed the Sub-Collector that the Kui Samaj had given a call for a bandh on 25-26 December to press their demands regarding various issues. They requested the district authorities to remain alert and preempt any trouble. On 23 December 2007, however, Christians of Brahmanigoan village tried to erect a Christmas gate in front of a Hindu place of worship. The incident caused clashes between the Christian and Hindu communities. [12]

Swami Lakshamanananda, a respected Hindu Guru, visited the site and was assaulted by gunmen. This led to further clashes between Hindus and Christians.[13].[14]

The authorities imposed a curfew in order to control the situation.[15][16]

Concerned with rising violence,after their assault on the Swami, some Dalit Christian leaders lodged a complaint with the Police for protection. [17]

The outbreak of violence started on 24th December, 2007 at 8.00 a.m. at Bamunigam village. Some Hindu activists.[18] forcefully removed the Christmas decoration which some local Christian businessmen had put up as a preparation for Christmas, on the very site used by the Hindus to celebrate the Durga Puja festival in October. [12] [19] This was followed by violence between the two groups.

By December 29, 2007 many persons of both faiths, mainly Christians, had to move to government-run relief camps to avoid attacks. [citation needed]Three persons were killed: one Christian and two non-Christians, as per the subsequent NCM Report.

By December 30, rioting was got under control by the security forces such as the CRPF. The total number of security personnel deployed was about 2,500 police and paramilitary. The total number of people taking shelter in relief camps increased to 1200. [20]

On Jan 1, 2008 further violence was reported at several places. Police said at least 20 houses and shops were torched at Phiringia, Khajuripada, Gochapada and Brahmanigaon by rioters on Tuesday night (January 1, 2008) [21]

Jacob Pradhan, general secretary of the Kandhamal district chapter of the Christian Endeavour Union, stated that around 100 houses belonging to Hindus were burnt in Brahmanigaon, Godapur, Barakhama and some other villages on December 26 and 27. He suspected that these houses were torched by sections of “misguided Christians” possibly incited by Maoists. [22][23].

Response

The Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh and other political parties condemned the violence.[24][25] Taking serious note of the attacks on churches and Christians in Orissa, the National Commission for Minorities, a body comprising of only Non-Hindu members, sought a report from the state government on the violence in four towns of Kandhamal district [26]

Organisations such as the American Human Rights Watch alleged that the December 2007 violence was a continuation of an "anti Christian" campaign being run by right-winged Hindu groups for several years, and that government officials had been ignoring the risk to the Christian community. [27]

Union Home minister Shivraj Patil visited relief camps and promised compensation to the victims of the communal riot. He asked the Orissa Government, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, to probe the riots instead of entirely depending on the reports of the judicial commission of inquiry. [21]

The Orissa government ordered a Judicial enquiry on the violence. [28]


August 2008 violence

Swami Lakshmanananda Murder

On the evening of Saturday, August 23, 2008, the octogenarian Swami Lakshmanananda Saraswati, a leader of Vishwa Hindu Parishad was killed at his Jalespata ashram in Kandhamal district in Orissa, along with four others; three fellow leaders of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and a boy.[29] The attackers, estimated at thirty gunmen, were originally suspected of being Maoist insurgents. Both the manner of attack and a letter found at the attack provided the basis for the initial suspicion. The government announced a special investigative probe into the attack.[30][31]

However, Hindu groups in the state, including the BJP, blamed Christians for killing Lakshmananand. They cited Lakshmanananda's claims that Christians were trying to eliminate him for his opposition to conversion, and had attacked him eight times before. He was regularly receiving death threats and the last threat letter had been submitted to the Police only the day before the murder.[citation needed]

On August 28, a letter of denial was received by a some media outlets, the VHP office in the Gajapati District of Orissa and the Bajrang Dal from a Maoist group. While the letter denied that the Central Committee of the Kotagarha branch of the Maoists had approved the attack, it claimed that some Maoists may have been bribed by Christians to launch the attack.[32] Sources within the police force have said that Maoists could have carried out the operation to appease their Christian support base.[33] Soon after the appearance of the aforementioned letter, Azad, a leader of the Maoist People's Liberation Guerrilla Army, claimed responsibility for the murder of Lakshmanananda. Azad was suspected by the police of leading the attack himself. [34] On September 9, 2008 the Maoists, who work underground, made an official press release claiming responsibility for the killing of Lakshmanananda. [35] Many Maoist sympathizers of south Orissa had initially denied the role of CPI-Maoist in the murder of VHP leaders that sparked off communal violence in Kandhamnal district. [36] However, several Maoist leaders took responsibility of the killing Lashmanananda on account of Lashmanananda's alleged forced reconversions of Christians. Communist Party of India (Maoist) leader Sabyasachi Panda claimed that they killed Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati and four of his disciples at his Jalespeta ashram on 23 August [37] [38] under pressure from the Christians, who form a majority of Maoist cadres in Orissa[39]. On Monday, October 6, 2008, the Orissa police announced they arrested two Christians in connection with the murder of the Swami. [40].

Religious Violence

After the killing of Swami Lakshmananda, the VHP called for a statewide shutdown on Monday, August 25, 2008. On the same day, rioters attacked a Christian orphanage at Khuntpalli village in Bargarh district. An employee and prospective convert of the orphanage, a local Hindu, was killed when the orphanage was set on fire.[41][42][43][44] On the same day in Kanjemandi a Hindu mob found a a Catholic priest, Father Thomas Chellantharayil and a nun hiding in a house from the mob. The mob attempted to force the priest to participate as they raped the nun [45]; at his refusal, he was assaulted and covered in kerosene. While a police complaint was lodged soon afterwards, no action was taken for over a month, adding to accusations of police misconduct. Eventually, four men were arrested for the attack, and a senior police office suspended over the delayed investigation.[46][47][48]

The statewide protest by the VHP and Bajrang Dal turned violent and was retaliated to by Christians. Amit Sharma of the VHP said Hindu people in the area had taken the death of the Swami "very seriously, and now they are going to pay them back."[49] A curfew was imposed in all towns in Kandhamal. Despite this, violence continued in Phulbani, Tumudibandh, Baliguda, Udaygiri, Nuagaon and Tikabali towns. The situation was so volatile that Minister of State for Home, Prakash Jaiswal, and other Congress Party leaders who had arrived to visit the riot hit areas, were told by the state government that they could not do so because their presence might provoke the crowds, and had to return to New Delhi.[citation needed]

By August 29, 2008 at least 20 people were killed and 3000 people were reported to be living in government run relief camps. 1000 homes had been set on fire. [citation needed] Many others fled into the jungle. All nine towns in the district were under a curfew, and the police had license to shoot. [50][51]

On August 31, 2008 violence continued in several parts of the state. As a result curfew was imposed in Jeypore town of Orissa's Koraput district. Five police personnel were injured in mob violence. The state government sought additional paramilitary forces to combat the continuing violence. [52]

On September 1, 2008 Government of Orissa claimed the situation was under control. However, 558 houses and 17 churches and prayer halls were burnt in riots. 543 houses were burnt in the worst hit Kandhamal district. 12,539 people were fed in 10 relief camps, 783 people got the facilities in two relief camps in Rayagada district. In all, 12 companies of para-military forces, 24 platoons of Orissa State Armed Police, two sections of Armed Police Reserve forces and two teams of Special Operation Group (SOG) were deployed to control the riots.[53] On September 4th, 2008 in Tikabali, Kandhmal over 300 Hindu tribal women attacked a relief camp for the Christian riot victims. The rioters were protesting christians' having provisions in relief camps while the Hindu community was not so provided.

On September 7, 2008 VHP leader Praveen Togadia announced that an All-India agitation would be launched if the killers of Lakshmananda were not arrested.[54] The Church in turn demanded dismissal of the state government.[citation needed]

On 15 September 2008, NDTV reported attacks on two hindu temples in Orissa's Sundergarh district. One was attacked on the night of 14 September, and the other 2 weeks earlier.[55]

On 3 October 2008, two more Christians were killed and a Christian nun who was hiding in a Hindu family was allegedly raped. [56] [57]

Political Fallout

The ruling government of Orissa, headed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, was a coalition of the BJP and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). In the 147-member state assembly the BJD-BJP combine has 93 members, 32 of whom are from the BJP.

Some BJP legislators blamed the government for not providing adequate protection to Saraswati, despite other attempts on his life. They called for withdrawing support from the government, which would lead to its collapse.

On Wednesday September 4, 2008, India's Supreme Court issued an order on a petition filed by Archbishop Raphael Cheenath seeking a CBI enquiry and dismissal of the state government. The order asked the Orissa state government to report on steps taken to stop a wave of communal rioting that has claimed at least 16 lives. The supreme court also asked the Naveen Patnayak government to file an affidavit by September 4 [citation needed] explaining the circumstances under which it allowed VHP leader Praveen Togadia to carry out a procession with the Saraswati's ashes, an act that would clearly inflame further communal tension.[58][59] Togadia said that he never proposed to carry the "ashes" of Saraswati and alleged that Archbishop Raphael Cheenath had "lied under oath to the apex court". The dead body of Swamiji was not cremated as his was a samadhi, where a holy man is entombed on death. So the claims of the 'asthi-kalash yatra' (carrying of ashes), were not true.[60]

Response

 India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh called the Orissa violence a "shame" and offered all help from the Centre to end the communal clashes and restore normalcy. He said he would speak to Orissa chief minister Naveen Patnaik to urge him to take all necessary steps to end the violence. [61] [62]

The church network - including the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India, the Evangelical Fellowship of India and the National Council of Churches in India - organized for all Christian institutions to remain closed on August 29, 2008 in protest. This led to accusations of misusing educational institutions for politicking.[citation needed]

 Vatican City On Wednesday August 27, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with the priests and nuns being victimized. [63] He "firmly condemned" the violence and called upon Indian religious and civil authorities "to work together to restore peaceful co-existence and harmony between the different religious communities." In doing so he said: "I learnt with great sorrow the information concerning the violence against the Christian community in Orissa which broke out after the reprehensible assassination of the Hindu leader, Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati. This led to derisive remarks in the press about the Italian origins of Sonia Gandhi, a Catholic, whose UPA alliance rules India from New Delhi."[64]

Human Rights Watch, a US-based outfit, expressed extreme dismay at the mob violence against Christians instigated by the VHP. The organization also expressed concern at the state government's lack of action following the Christmas 2007 violence. [65]

 Italy's Foreign Ministry called on India's ambassador to demand ‘incisive action’ to prevent further attacks against Christians.[66] This invited protests from the Indian media as uncalled-for interference.[citation needed]

The National Human Rights Commission of India(NHRC) sought a report from the Orissa government on the ongoing religious violence in the state. [67]

 United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) an independent federal agency advising the US administration has demanded the Indian authorities take immediate steps to quell the violence and order a probe to find out the perpetrators of the attacks.

"The continuing attacks targeting Christians represent the second major outbreak of religious violence in Orissa since December which underlines the pressing need for Indian government to develop preventive strategies," the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) said. "Both state and central governments are responsible to protect every person's right to religious freedom, including members of religious minorities, as guaranteed in international human rights instruments," Commission Chair Felice D Gaer said in a statement. [68]

 European Union expressed concern over the violence against Christians in Orissa and hoped that the ruling government would bring the perpetrators to justice. [69]

In a press release made on September 21st, The National Commission for Minorities blamed the Sangh Parivar and Bajrang Dal for the communal violence in states of Karnataka and Orissa. Shafi Qureshi, member of the NCM team stated that the NCM teams had determined activists of Bajrang Dal were involved in these attacks in both in state of Orissa and Karnataka. Condemning the attack on churches in Kandhamal and other areas of Orissa and in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Chikmagalur and Mangalore in Karnataka, the Commission stressed the need for immediate confidence building measures to allay the fear from the minds of the minorities in both states of Orissa and Karnataka. [70]

References

  1. ^ "Orissa Freedom of Religion Act, 1967" (PDF). Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  2. ^ "Orissa Freedom of Religion Rules, 1989" (PDF). Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  3. ^ "Conversion debate". Flonnet.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  4. ^ a b "Planning & Coordination". Orissa.gov.in. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  5. ^ "BBC NEWS". BBC. 2008-01-02. Retrieved 2008-09-18. {{cite web}}: Text "Indian minister in Orissa visit" ignored (help); Text "South Asia" ignored (help)
  6. ^ "The Staines case verdict". Frontline. 2003-10-10. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  7. ^ http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl2021/stories/20031024003902400.htm The Staines case verdict
  8. ^ "Staines murder: Dara Singh's death rap set aside". Rediff.com. Retrieved 2008-09-19.
  9. ^ Census India2001
  10. ^ "Caste, tribe, conversion make Orissa district volatile".
  11. ^ Reverse scene in Kandhamal The Pioneer - October 11, 2008
  12. ^ a b "Report of the NCM visit to Orissa, 6-8 January 2008" (PDF). NCM. Retrieved 2008-08-26.
  13. ^ "Slain vhp man was conversion king". Indianexpress.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  14. ^ "Christians fear attacks by Indian Hindus". Retrieved 2008-01-01. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |Publisher= ignored (|publisher= suggested) (help)
  15. ^ "Violence continues at Orissa's Kandhamal district". Retrieved 2008-01-01. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |Publisher= ignored (|publisher= suggested) (help)
  16. ^ "Curfew continues in four Orissa towns". Retrieved 2008-01-01. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |Publisher= ignored (|publisher= suggested) (help)
  17. ^ "Vandals in Orissa". Asian Age. {{cite web}}: Text "accessdate- January 9, 2008" ignored (help)
  18. ^ >"Tehelka:: Free. Fair. Fearless:Next Stop Orissa". Tehalka. Retrieved 2008-09-08.
  19. ^ "Report of the NCM visit to Orissa, 6-8 January 2008" (PDF). NCM. Retrieved 2008-08-26.
  20. ^ "Sunday services held amid tight security in Orissa". Retrieved 2008-01-02. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |article date= ignored (help)
  21. ^ a b "Fresh violence in Kandhamal, Patil promises compensation". Press Trust of India as seen in Indian Express. Retrieved 2006-01-03.
  22. ^ http://www.compassdirect.org/en/display.php?page=news&lang=en&length=long&idelement=5210 INDIA: MAOISTS SAID TO RECRUIT VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE
  23. ^ http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080038179 NGO-Maoist link in Kandhamal
  24. ^ "Curfew continues in four Orissa towns". Retrieved 2008-01-01. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |Publisher= ignored (|publisher= suggested) (help)
  25. ^ "Zee News - PM assures of restoring peace in Orissa". 2007-12-30. Retrieved 2008-01-02.
  26. ^ "Orissa violence: NCM seeks report". 2007-12-27. Retrieved 2008-01-01.
  27. ^ "HRW seeks end to Hindu-Christian violence in Orissa". The Hindu. 2007-12-29. Retrieved 2008-01-01.
  28. ^ "Retired judge to probe Orissa riots as police firing kills four". IANS as reported on Yahoo! News. Retrieved 2008-01-03. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |articledate= ignored (help)
  29. ^ Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader, four others shot dead The Economic Times - August 24, 2008
  30. ^ Orissa announces judicial probe into murder of VHP leaders The Hindu - August 24, 2008
  31. ^ Protests in Orissa over killing of VHP leader NDTV - August 24, 2008
  32. ^ Maoists deny role in VHP leader’s murder The Hindu - August 29, 2008]
  33. ^ Kandhmal: Mystery surrounds Swami's death NDTV - September 4, 2008
  34. ^ "Maoists claim they killed 'fascist' VHP leader in Orissa". Times of India. 30 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-31.
  35. ^ "CPI Maoists claim VHP leader's killing". NDTV. September 9, 2008. Retrieved 2008-09-09.
  36. ^ http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/29/stories/2008082952080300.htm
  37. ^ "Maoists claim responsibility for killing of VHP leader" (Press release). The Hindu. October 5, 2008. Retrieved 2008-10-05.
  38. ^ "We killed Swami, Maoists say again" (Press release). The Times of India. October 6, 2008. Retrieved 2008-10-05.
  39. ^ 'Majority of Maoist supporters in Orissa are Christians' The Hindu - October 5, 2008
  40. ^ Orissa arrests 2 Christians for Hindu leader's murder Reuters India - October 6, 2008
  41. ^ http://www.asianews.it:80/view4print.php?l=en&art=13056
  42. ^ "VHP activists set fire to orphanage, burn nun to death in Orissa - National News – News – MSN India - News". News.in.msn.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  43. ^ "The Hindu News Update Service". Hindu.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  44. ^ "VHP bandh turns violent in Orissa, churches attacked" (html) (Press release). All India Christian Council AICC. 26 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-27. {{cite press release}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  45. ^ http://www.outlookindia.com/pti_news.asp?id=616172
  46. ^ "Nun was gang raped and priest brutally assaulted in Kandhamal". The Hindu. September 30, 2008. Retrieved 2008-10-04.
  47. ^ "Four arrested over India nun rape". BBC News. Retrieved 2008-10-04.
  48. ^ "Medical reports confirm Kandhmal nun raped". NDTV. Retrieved 2008-10-04.
  49. ^ "Indian state erupts in violence after Hindu shot" (html). CNN Asia. 27 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-29. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
  50. ^ "Is violence affecting India's image" (Press release). NDTV. 28 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-29.
  51. ^ "Thousands homeless after Hindu-Christian violence in India" (Press release). International Herald Tribune. 29 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-29.
  52. ^ (Press release). Press Trust of India. August 31, 2008 http://www.ptinews.com/pti/ptisite.nsf/$all/734B313145EEC546652574B6005AC8B5. Retrieved 2008-08-31. {{cite press release}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  53. ^ "558 houses, 17 places of worship torched during riot: Orissa govt". Times of India. 1 September 2008. Retrieved 2008-09-01.
  54. ^ "Orissa violence: VHP threatens nationwide stir" (Press release). Economic Times. 7 September, 2008. Retrieved 2008-09-07. {{cite press release}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |Author= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  55. ^ NDTV
  56. ^ CNN-IBN
  57. ^ Onenewsnow
  58. ^ "SC directs Orissa govt to file affidavit on violence". Newstrackindia.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  59. ^ Sep 3, 2008 (September 3, 2008). "AFP: India court demands report on anti-Christian violence". Afp.google.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  60. ^ "The Hindu News Update Service". Thehindu.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  61. ^ http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/PM_calls_Orissa_violence_a_shame/articleshow/3419084.cms"PM calls Orissa violence a 'shame'" (Press release). Times of India. 29 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-29.
  62. ^ "The clout of Sonia Gandhi". Ivarta.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
  63. ^ http://in.reuters.com/article/topNews/idINIndia-35197320080827"Pope deplores anti-Christian violence in Orissa" (Press release). Reuters India. August 27, 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-28.
  64. ^ http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080063156&ch=8/27/2008%207:43:00%20PM Pope 'firmly condemns' violence in Orissa
  65. ^ "World Leaders Urged to Condemn Violence in Orissa" (Press release). Human Rights Watch. 28 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-29.
  66. ^ "Italy calls Indian envoy over attacks on Christians" (Press release). Indian Express. 28 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-09-02. {{cite press release}}: Unknown parameter |Author= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  67. ^ "NHRC issues notice to Orissa over violence" (Press release). Times of India. 29 August 2008. Retrieved 2008-08-30. {{cite press release}}: Unknown parameter |Author= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  68. ^ "USCIRF Urges Decisive Action by Central Government to Stop Communal Violence in Orissa" (Press release). USCIRF. 3 September 2008. Retrieved 2008-09-04. {{cite press release}}: Unknown parameter |Author= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  69. ^ "India should bring Orissa violence perpetrators to book: EU" (Press release). Economic Times. 28 September 2008. Retrieved 2008-10-04. {{cite press release}}: Unknown parameter |Author= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  70. ^ "NCM blames Bajrang Dal for Karnataka, Orissa violence" (Press release). PTI. 21 September 2008. Retrieved 2008-09-21. {{cite press release}}: Unknown parameter |Author= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Orissa.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=User_talk:70.57.161.43&oldid=244444602"