Riot victims denied relief by Gujarat can approach us: Centre

Reopening the debate on the number of people killed or injured in the post-Godhra riots, Parliamentary Affairs Minister P R Dasmunsi said that riot-hit people with complaints against the state government could approach the Centre. He said the Union Home Ministry would “consider, monitor and review” their cases.

The decision comes in the run-up to forthcoming Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh (in April-May) and Gujarat (by the year-end).

According to the Gujarat government’s figures, 1,169 people died in the riots. Their next of kin, Dasmunsi said, will get Rs 3.5 lakh ex gratia in addition to the amount paid by the state government. And the 2,548 injured, as per state figures, will get an additional Rs 1.25 lakh each. He said the package includes ex gratia for damage to property.

In addition, children and family members of those who died in the riots will get preference for recruitment in paramilitary forces, state police forces, India Reserve Battalions, PSUs and Central departments. Those who were forced to leave their jobs owing to the riots will be allowed to rejoin while pension will be paid to those who retired.