NCM seeks report from Orrisa government

NEW DELHI: The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) sought a report from the Orissa government   even as attacks on Christians and churches continued in the tribal area of Phulbani in Kandhamal district for the fourth day on Thursday.

An NCM delegation will soon visit the troubled Kandhamal district, the commission’s spokesperson said. Meanwhile, Christian organisations held candle light protests outside the Orissa Niwas on Bordoloi Marg here.

The United Christian Forum, Delhi Catholic Archdiocese, Church of North India, National Christian Council, All-India Catholic Union, All-India Christian Council, United Christian Action and others participated in the protests against “Sangh violence against Orissa Christians”.

Expressing serious concern over the attacks, Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI), the apex body of the Catholic Church in India, called for a week of prayers across the country for peace and harmony in Orissa.

CBCI president Cardinal Telesphore Toppo claimed miscreants have forced Christians to leave their villages and take refuge in the forests. “It is reported that approximately 2,000 Christians, including sisters and priests, are hiding in the forests.”