Kandhamal Violence: PM steps in, State govt announces Compensation

Even as normalcy is fast returning to Orissa's riot-hit Kandhamal district, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has stepped in, assuring security to the people living in the area. The PM has assured the Christian community that government will do everything possible to safeguard the rights and liberties of all sections of society irrespective of their caste or community.

The PM called up Orissa CM Naveen Patnaik to take stock of the situation. The CM has assured him that the state government will ensure safety and security of people belonging to all communities.

The Orissa government announced a compensation of Rs one lakh each to the next of kin of those killed in the communal violence. In addition, accommodation would be provided under Indira Aawas Yojana to those whose houses were destroyed in the violence. Rs 10,000 would be provided to people whose houses were partially damaged.