Human Rights Violence Escalates in Eastern India
Across the eastern Indian state of Orissa, violent human rights persecutions based on political, caste and economic affiliation have led to emergency conditions since August for an estimated 100,000 people. Catholic Relief Services is carrying out a $140,000 humanitarian response.
The Kandhamal district has seen the most of the violence and destruction which sparked after the August 23 shooting of Swami Laxanananda Saraswati and five other people in Orissa. As many as 4,500 houses and 70 places of worship have been destroyed in weeks of widespread persecution of Christians and other vulnerable groups in the state.
"The situation has stabilized but remains tense," says Jennifer Poidatz, CRS India country representative.
As many as 20,000 people have sought refuge in camps for the displaced, which are mostly in schools and other government buildings.
"Many of the camps are cramped beyond the capacity. Facilities for potable water and sanitation are poor while many people live under trees and in open spaces. Health risks are high, and injured people have minimal access to the medical facilities. Most of the families have just one pair of clothes and are living in damp conditions because of the rains," says Poidatz.
Even in the camps, people are taking turns to guard each other and their surroundings for fear of being attacked. Some people continue to live in their broken houses but come to the camps at night, making the area even more crowded. Children are out of school and there is no place for them to play or receive counseling.
"Varying opinions exist as to the motivation behind the senseless killings and displacement of thousands of poor families that, in normal times, already struggle to meet their basic needs. The fact that this is happening in tribal areas where there is no history of religious tension is a good indicator that religion is not at the root of the violence. It is true that most in the camps are Christian, but entire villages are affected," says Poidatz.
CRS Response
CRS' humanitarian relief effort will first focus on the provision of emergency medical services and emergency relief supplies to an estimated 10,000 camp residents.
"The needs are enormous, with tens of thousands of people crowded into camps across the district. The government is providing security and access for our teams of doctors, nurses and social workers," says Poidatz.
CRS is working closely alongside the Indian government and local partners in Orissa to respond to the needs of 100,000 people. CRS and Caritas are also collaborating with the national and local governments to ensure that all assistance is provided fairly and reaches those affected.
"CRS plans to look at a longer-term response, applying the lessons learned from similar situations in other parts of the country," says Poidatz.
How to Help:
Donate via phone: 1-877-HELP-CRS
Donate online: donate.crs.org
Write a check: Catholic Relief Services
P.O. Box 17090
Baltimore, Maryland 21203-7090
Since 1946, CRS has provided humanitarian and emergency support in India and, today, has 12 offices and more than 200 staff carrying out such vital programs across the country.
