Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Tuesday, 29 November 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 1 December 2005. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Wednesday, 7 December 2005 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

India

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make representations to (a) the Indian Government and (b) the Chief Minister of Orissa state about the burning down of houses belonging to members of the Christian community in Gandahati village, Gajapati district, Orissa.

Answer: Our high commission in New Delhi has looked into media reports alleging this attack against Christians in Orissa but has been unable to verify these. We condemn all instances where individuals are persecuted because of their faith or belief, wherever they happen and whatever the religion of the individual or group concerned. Our high commission in New Delhi continues to monitor the issue of religious freedom, with staff making regular calls on the appropriate Indian authorities to flag up our concern about incidents of religious intolerance. We will continue to insist that the right to freedom of religion is upheld, and that those responsible for attacks against people on grounds of their religion are brought to justice.

Secondary information