Two convicted in Kandhamal riots case

Bhubaneswar, Apr 1: A fast track court here sentenced two people to two years imprisonment in Kandhamal riots case on Wednesday, Mar 31.

On Aug 26, 2008, Ratnakar Pradhan and Parsuram Pradhan of Ketemaha village were accused of torching Sanu Naik's house. They were booked under several charges.

The charges against the two include mischief causing damage, unlawful assembly and rioting, public prosecutor PK Patra was quoted by news agency as saying.

They were also fined Rs 2,500 by Judge Chittaranjan Mohanty on Wednesday Mar 31.

"If they fail to pay the fine, they will have to undergo an additional six-and-half months of jail term," Patra said.

In another case, the court in Kandhamal district acquitted 10 people as charges against them could not be proved.

Filima Nayak and others from Tikabali area accused them of torching houses along the way when Swami Laxmanananda's body was being taken in a procession.

"The charges levelled by Filima Nayak and others could not be proved," Patra said.

Kandhamal district witnessed widespread violence after the murder of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati and four of his aides at his ashram Aug 23, 2008.

About 25,000 Christians were forced to flee their homes after their houses were attacked by rampaging mobs that held Christians responsible for Saraswati's killing.

OneIndia News