Bhubaneswar: The 11-member European Union (EU) team, finally returned home, ending their visit to Orissa, and Kandhamal visit in particular. They met government officials, administration, Christian leaders, rights groups, social activists and also the riot-hit victims during their trip.

During their visit to relief camps in Kandhamal, they realised that the Orissa government has taken adequate steps to protect and rehabilitate the minorities. However, some of them are still facing hardships, which need to be addressed soon, they said.

The group was headed by EU's counsellor (head of political affairs) Christophe Manet. They visited several riot-hit villages and rehabilitation camps in Kandhamal. The team comprised members from Spain, Hungary, Poland, Ireland, Finland, Sweden and Britain.

During the last phase of their visit to Kandhamal, the EU team wanted to visit the fast track courts and interact with the judges. However, they were denied permission for obvious reasons and there were no complaints.

Kandhamal witnessed a series of violent clashes and attacks aftermath the killing of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati and four of his aides at his ashram Aug 23, 2008. Maoists aided by some fanatic Christian groups were said to be behind the murder.

There was a huge backlash after Swamiji's murder and over 25,000 Christians were forced to flee their homes, after they were attacked by hardcore Hindutva groups. Peace and normalcy have returned to Kandhamal now and the riots have become a part of history.