Shivraj Patil assures Kyndiah of protecting Christians

New Delhi, Jan 11 (UNI) Home Minister Shivraj Patil today assured Tribal Affairs Minister P R Kyndiah that all necessary steps will be taken for the protection of the lives and property of the Christians in the country.

He gave this assurance to Mr Kyndiah who called on him here to express concern over the recent incidents of atrocities and burning of churches in Kandhamal, Orissa.

Mr Patil told him that the government would provide rehabilitation package to the affected in the tribal belt of Orissa and would take steps to instill confidence among the people.

Earlier, describing the incidents as 'unfortunate', Mr Kyndiah told Mr Patil that these were the cause of anguish and pain not only for Christians but also the whole civilized society.

He urged the Home Minister to take appropriate steps and strict action against the elements behind such incidents. He also urged him to ensure that such incidents did not recur.

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