The judicial commission probing the 2008 Kandhamal communal riots on Monday asked the Orissa government to appoint an assessor to expedite the inquiry.
Justice S C Mohapatra, heading the one-man panel, made this request to home secretary U N Behera during a three-hour meeting at the Commission's office in Bhubaneswar.
"I have informed the home secretary about requirement of an assessor to expedite inquiry into the Kandhamal situation as it is too complicated," Justice Mohapatra told reporters later.
He said he would prefer a retired district judge with experience of working in Kandhamal district for about seven years. "I may also appoint anyone from public having knowledge on Kandhamal, if suitable retired judge is not available."
The home department has to take permission from the law and finance departments before giving green signal to the Commission for appointment of an assessor, official sources said. Behera refused to comment on the meeting.
Set up in September 2008, the Mohapatra Commission was to submit its report within six months. It has got five extensions and examined 144 people till now.
On the expected deadline to end the probe, Justice Mohapatra said, "I do not know. It may take time as the situation is very complicated."
{{/usCountry}}On the expected deadline to end the probe, Justice Mohapatra said, "I do not know. It may take time as the situation is very complicated."
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