NCM fact-finding team leaving for Orissa on Jan 6

New Delhi, Jan 3 (UNI) A two-member National Commission for Minorities fact finding team will leave for Orissa on January 6 to get first hand information regarding the clash between Christians and tribals during which three people were killed and a number of churches torched.

The team, consisting of Dileep Padgaonkar and Zoya Hasan, will visit all the affected areas and speak to both sides besides officials concerned, a Member said.

The visit was finalised here at the monthly meeting of the Commission in which Orissa violence was one of the many issues discussed.

The clash had erupted at the Brahamanigaon village of Kandhmal district of the state on the eve of Christmas over the erection of a welcome gate.

Three people were killed in the clash and many houses and places of worship damaged.

A judicial inquiry has already been ordered into the incident.

Leading Christian organisations have given a representation to the Prime Minister demanding security and freedom of religion.

UNI NAZ BDP GC1544