Salvationists and other Christians living in a government-run camp in Orissa, India, received encouragement through the visit of Commissioner Lalkiamlova, International Secretary for South Asia (IHQ). The commissioner visited Tikapali, one of the three remaining camps established by the Government of Orissa State for Christians who were forced from their homes after persecution broke out in the District of Kandhamal in August 2008. The trouble began after the murder of a Hindu priest and Christians became the scapegoats, with churches being attacked and Christians assaulted and even killed.

Around 500 Christians live in Tikapali Camp under military protection and 150 of these are Salvationists. Commissioner Lalkiamlova was accompanied by Colonel Kashinath Lahase (Territorial Commander, India Northern Territory), Major Sabita Das (Divisional Commander, Angul Division – including Orissa) and three other officers.

The future of the Christians in the camps is still uncertain but they are now allowed to hold worship services. The international secretary also met 34 families who fled persecution from the same area and are now living in the slums of Bubhaneswar, the capital city of Orissa. On seeing their leaders the Salvationists were unable to control their emotion and hugged Commissioner Lalkiamlova tightly, their tears expressing their appreciation of the visit.

Rehabilitation and emotional healing for these persecuted and displaced Christians are urgently needed. As requested by Commissioner Lalkiamlova, the India Northern Territory is undertaking a survey on rehabilitation needs and will decide how best to help people affected by the troubles.