BERHAMPUR: The three-day hearing by Justice Basudev Panigrahi Commission, appointed to inquire into Kandhamal riots of 2007, was completed on Wednesday.
Apparently, the tenure of the Commission that is extended every year by the State Government, ended on Wednesday. Since inquiry has not been completed, the panel has urged the State Government to the extend tenure by one more year.
After being appointed on July 14, 2008, the Commission has held 69 hearings at different places. It also received 560 affidavits to depose statements related to the riots.
During its hearing here this week, the Commission asked six NGOs, working in Kandhamal, who submitted affidavits to depose their statements. However, only three of the six NGOs deposed.
According to sources, of the 560 affidavits, the Commission issued summons to 441 witnesses to depose and so far, it has recorded statements of 236 witnesses.
Students Taken Ill
Over 300 school students in Sanakhemundi block were taken ill after having lunch in the school on Tuesday.
The students were admitted to the local hospital and their condition stated to be stable.
Over 300 students of the Nodal Primary School and Kasturba Gandhi Abasika Balika Vidyalaya at Adapada consumed rice and egg curry in noon meals, prepared by a local SHG in the school, said headmaster Surendra Bisoi.
After eating the food, some students felt uneasy and started vomiting, while several others complained about abdominal pains.
“All were treated in the hospital and only 10 students are currently undergoing treatment in the hospital,” said the headmaster. Doctors said they suffered from food poisoning.
District Project Officer of Sarva Shikshya Abhiyan, Sudam Mandal said he had asked the education officers to shift the sick students to MKCG Medical if any student was found critical. PTI