Truth about Kandhamal (Pioneer, Jan. 14, 2008)

[ Media has distorted the facts about the clashes between tribals and missionaries in this Orissa district. Ashok Sahu tells the real story of what happened and why it happened ]

Reports of clashes between 'converted' Christians led by missionaries on one hand and tribals on the other in Kandhamal district of Orissa that have been highlighted by media since December 25, 2007, are vastly distorted and motivated. These reports need to be clarified in public interest lest our national image is tarnished before the people and the international community.

The whole series of incidents began with the unprovoked and pre-planned attack on Vedanta Keshari Swami Lakshmanananda Saraswati who was visiting his disciples at Darsingbadi village in Kandhmal district on December 24. The 82-year-old Swami has been working tirelessly in the district since 1967 for the welfare of the local population.