PM directs HM to report on Orissa, Karnataka situation

New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) Taking note of the continuing violence in Orissa and Karnataka, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday sought a detailed report from Home Minister Shivraj Patil on the situation in these states.

"The Cabinet took note of the latest situation prevailing
in Orissa and Karnataka and the Home Minister was asked by the
Prime Minister to apprise the cabinet of the situation in its
next meeting," Information and Broadcasting Minister P R
Dasmunsi told reporters.

He said serious concern was expressed on Orissa,
particularly Kandhamal where "some organisations" were
actively taking part in the violence and the Home Ministry has
been asked to give an appraisal report at the earliest.

"The situation is very grave. The government is quite
concerned," he said.

Pointing out that 7,500 para-military personnel had been
rushed to Kandhamal, with one 100 jawans posted at every
village, he said the Centre strongly felt that the "Orissa
government has to do more, which they are not doing".

Asked whether imposition of President's rule in the state
was discussed, he replied in the negative saying matters
pertaining to the Constitution were not discussed arbitrarily.
PTI MS