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Vajpayee orders punishment for anti-Christian acts

Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee has directed the Gujarat government to take action against those disturbing communal harmony and peace in the state.

Vajpayee, who halted in Bhubaneswar on his way to Port Blair, told the media that resentment among the tribals in Gujarat was growing -- at some places it was even taking the shape of tribals versus Christians.

Leaders of public opinion must ensure that small incidents do not turn serious, he added.

Asked whether the Vishwa Hindu Parishad was behind the attacks, he said: "That is a matter to be inquired."

To a question on the VHP's criticism of Nobel laureate Amartya Sen, the prime minister said he disagreed with such views. ''We are proud of Professor Sen. I would like to meet him and seek his advice on economic matters,'' he said.

He dubbed the VHP's statement unfortunate.

Referring to Orissa's Ramgiri Udayagiri, which witnessed tribal unrest against Christians, Vajpayee said it was a warning to the whole nation.

He said India being a secular state, all citizens, irrespective of their caste, creed and politics would be provided security.

On Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi's allegation that he was shielding All-India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazagham leader J Jayalalitha, the prime minister quipped, "He said I am tolerating her!"

Charged with neglecting Orissa, the prime minister said it was not true.

Vajpayee had arrived in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday night by a special Indian Air Force plane. He stayed at the Raj Bhawan and left for Port Blair in the Andamans early on Wednesday.

Orissa Chief Minister Janaki Ballab Patnaik, Union Minister of State for Surface Transport Debendra Pradhan, and senior officials of the state were present at the airport.

UNI

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