AHMEDABAD: The National Commission for Minorities on Saturday appealed to the Centre to grant compensation to the Gujarat riot victims on the lines of what was given to the victims of the anti-Sikh riots of 1984.

Tarlochan Singh, Chairman, who reviewed the rehabilitation of victims with Chief Minister Narendra Modi and senior government officials, said here that the families of the anti-Sikh riot victims were paid compensation of Rs. 3.50 lakh each. In the case of Gujarat, it was only Rs 1.50 lakh.

He said Mr. Modi had suggested that a uniform compensation system be evolved by the Centre for victims of communal clashes. More than 300 persons were killed in communal clashes in different parts of the country after the Gujarat riots. He would take up the matter with the Centre.

The Commission would request the Centre to reallocate Rs. 19 crore to Gujarat for additional rehabilitation assistance. He had advised the State Government to prepare fresh proposals to this effect. The amount was part of Rs. 150 crore sanctioned by the Centre in 2002, but Rs. 19 crore was unutilised and sent back.

Sabari Kumbh

Mr. Singh and V.V. Augustine, NCM member, rejected the suggestion of Christian leaders that the government be pressured to stop the "Sabari Kumbh," to be held in the tribal-dominated district of Dangs next month with the support of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad.

Mr. Augustine, who visited Dangs on Friday, talked to local community leaders. Some Christian leaders expressed apprehension about a possible law and order problem in view of several lakh Hindus converging at the place.

Mr. Singh, however, said it was not advisable to stop the religious ceremony of any community. Both he and Mr. Augustine discussed the matter with the Chief Minister and officials. They were assured that all precautionary measures would be taken to ensure that the Kumbh remained incident-free.

The All-India Christian Council boycotted Mr. Singh's visit to the State, alleging that his past performance (under the NDA Government) in serving the interests of minorities was not encouraging.

Mr. Singh said in terms of the number of deaths, the anti-Sikh riots were three times bigger than the Gujarat riots. Over 3,400 persons were killed in 1984. As per the government records, 1,169 persons were killed in Gujarat.

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