[HPI note: However sad, news on this conflict are important for Hindus because of the murder of Swami Laxshmananda in late 2008, which sparked riots. Hindu leaders have been systematically persecuted in Orissa — or even killed. The population believes that unscrupulous proselytizers, using their financial edge, are allied with the violent Maoists.]
BHUBANESHWAR, ORISSA, INDIA, March 19, 2009: Prabhat Panigrahi, a leader of Hindu organisation Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), was attacked and shot dead in Rudhiguma village (Kandhamal district) by about 15 suspected Maoist rebels, and Hindus believe the killing was the result of a “nexus” between state officials, Christians and Maoists.
Police struggled to reach the remote village, as the attackers had blocked roads with logs. Angry villagers refused to allow the police to take possession of the body of their slain leader. They are demanding the immediate arrest of the killers and protection for Hindus. Kandhamal police chief S Praveen Kumar refused to comment.
Leaders of Hindu organizations reacted sharply to the killing. “This is the result of the nexus between the state government on the one hand and the Christians and Maoists on the other,” said Subas Chouhan, leader of Hindu group Bajrang Dal. “The Maoists have been given a free run in the area to bump off those working for the interests of Hindus.”
Kandhamal district witnessed weeks of anti-Christian violence last year after Hindu leader Swami Laxmananda Saraswati and four others were shot dead in August.