Bishops to lead delegation to Orissa

New Delhi, Jan 2 (UNI) The Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) will lead a delegation to Orissa tomorrow to study the ''spurt in attacks on the Christians'' in the state.

''The decision to visit the state follows a fervent appeal by the CBCI for a probe by the CBI into the alleged attacks on the churches in Orissa,'' a release today said.

The report of the study would be presented to the appropriate state and church authorities, the release added.

CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury and CBCI spokesman Babu Joseph would be part of the delegation to Orissa.

Addressing a press conference here on Monday, Dr Joseph had expressed his disappointment with the state government and said "We are dismayed at the slow reaction of the administration. Fear and anxiety continues to stalk the minority community since Christmas.

Yet, no adequate protection has been provided, nor have any preventive measures been taken to check the onslaught," he had said.

UNI SSS MSJ KN1854