The Union Cabinet on June 12 gave its approval to several proposals in respect of relief and rehabilitation for the victims of communal riots in Bhagalpur, Bihar of 1989-90. In respect of those killed during riots, the next of kin would be paid an ex-gratia amount Rs.3.5 lakh, which would be in addition to the amount already paid by the State Government. This would entail an expenditure of Rs.29.54 crore for 844 deaths.
In respect of those who were injured in the riots, an ex-gratia amount would be paid Rs.1.25 lakh each, which would be reduced by the amount already paid by the State Government. This would entail an expenditure of Rs.26.99 lakh for 22 injured persons for whom the State Government has spent Rs.50,715. The total liability to the Central Government comes to Rs. 2980.99 or Rs. 29.81 crore. Payment of ex-gratia to victims of communal riots in Bhagalpur, Bihar, for death and injury cases is at par with the package announced in respect of victims of anti-Sikh riots of 1984.