Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bhubaneswar (Agenzia Fides) - There is relief but also concern in civil society and the Church in Orissa: the release of the Italian hostage Paolo Bosusco, released by the Maoists in Kandhamal district, after that of Claudio Colangelo. However, "the story is a wake-up call for the government because it has to face the serious problems that Dalits and tribals living in remote areas of the state have," notes to Fides Dhirendra Panda, a human rights activist and member of the National Forum of Solidarity. Currently the Parliamentary of Orissa, Jhina Hikaka, kidnapped on March 23 by another group of Maoists, still remains in the hands of kidnappers.
"The political, social and economic issues regarding tribal communities and Dalits should be seriously reconsidered: it is urgent to plan a development strategy. Until that happens, rebel groups will continue to resort to the practice of kidnapping or violence " continues Panda.
Also according to Church leaders the policies should be reviewed, for the good of the state. "Bosusco’s release is a positive note and is a reason of joy" says to Fides Fr. Roy Kochupurackal, Vice-Secretary of the Episcopal Conference of Orissa. "But - he continues - because of the hostage crisis in the state of Orissa, potential tourists are discouraged from visiting the state of Orissa, which could be considered an unsafe state."
According to Fr. Ajaya Kumar Singh, Director of the Forum of Orissa for Social Action, "the Maoists wanted to get exposure and they did. Some factions of the Maoists themselves have lobbied for the release of the hostages." The government of Orissa should address the issue of tribal people with attention, care, adequate long-term investment, and not consider it only "in cases of crisis." (SD-PA) (Agenzia Fides 17/4/2012)
