Freedom of religion or belief

CSW’s report explores the continuing effects of the 2008 massacre in Odisha, and the impact it is having upon the remaining Christians given the lack of state impetus to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The scars of the 2008 massacre continue to plague the Christians in Odisha (formerly Orissa) State as they endeavour to eke out an existence. With no visible will from the state or central government to bring the perpetrators to justice, the Christians continue to live in a climate of insecurity and with the fear of further attacks. Many were forced to leave their homes with little resources to start afresh, and have received little financial aid from the state.

The lack of will by state institutions to deter future communal violence means that the plight of religious minorities in Odisha and the rest of India is disconcerting.

Urgent action must be taken to confront past crimes and bring the perpetrators of the Kandhamal District, Odisha State, communal violence to justice. Inasmuch as these issues are ignored, impunity and a divisive communal mentality will continue.

Download the report