Kandhamal returning to normalcy, prohibitory orders lifted

The riot-hit Kandhamal district of Orissa is slowly returning to normalcy. District authorities have lifted the prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPc from entire district from today. But the night curfew in five worst affected police stations will continue. 

District collector of Kandhamal Dr. Krishan Kumar said, "The night curfew would be lifted at any time from these areas while reviewing the law and order situation. There is no news of any untoward incidents in last fortnight."

Night curfew is in force in G Udayagiri, Tikabali, Raikia and Sarangagada police station limits. The district administration has constituted peace committees at panchayat level. Both poice and administration have promised safety for those who want to return to his village from the relief camps. Nearly 15 thousand people are leaving in different relief camps of the district.

Communal violence rocked Kandhamal district after the brutal killing of Swami Laxamananda Saraswati. The violence had so far taken more than 40 lives. According to a preliminary official report about 3269 houses were damaged in the violence and 154 places of worships were destroyed. At least 15 government and other buildings were also either fully or partially damaged in the violence.

More than 800 people had so far been arrested in connection with the violence while the police have registered 644 cases.

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