Rio expresses concern over communal clashes

Kohima, Dec 30: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today expressed concern over the communal clashes in Orissa and the alleged atrocities being perpetrated on the Christian community in the state.

In a statement here, Mr Rio said such activities were detrimental to the secular spirit of the Constitution and against the secular foundation of the country.

Condemning the communal clashes, he urged all the secular and sensible forces to unite and overcome the sections that were polarising the country on religious lines.

The Chief Minister alleged that the Christian community was being subjected to such atrocities on regular basis. He added that protection of religious rights and sentiments and assurance of the right to freedom of religion must be provided to every citizen.

''It is indeed unfortunate that at a time when the whole world is celebrating the spirit of peace and understanding during the Christmas period, Christians in Orissa were undergoing sufferings and pain at the hands of religious fundamentalist forces,'' he lamented.

Mr Rio also appealed to all the law-enforcing agencies to immediately address the problem and take all necessary measures to ensure the people's security.

UNI