New Delhi, Oct. 8 : The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has decided to inquire into the recent attacks on Christians in various parts of the country.

A full-fledged team of the Commission chaired by NCSC Chairman Buta Singh will visit Orissa on October 17 and 18 to inquire into the whole episode.

The team will visit the worst affected Kandhamal District and adjoining areas to assess the situation. NCSC members will also hold meetings with the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary and the police chief of the state.

The Commission will examine cases of attacks against Dalit Christians and also assess the steps taken by the state government to safeguard their life and property.

The Commission had earlier sought a detailed report from the Orissa Chief Secretary on the communal violence there after the killing of VHP leader Laxmananda Saraswati on 23rd August.

A fortnight back, the Orissa government apprised the Commission of the background of the violence and the measures taken by it to control communal clashes and compensate victims.

Apparently dissatisfied with the report as complaints kept pouring in, the Commission decided to carry out an on-the-spot enquiry. Moreover, over a dozen organisations approached the Commission drawing its attention to the plight of Dalit Christians after the communal flare up.

After examining the complaints, the Commission will submit a report to the Central government. The Commission will return here on October 18. (ANI)