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Bhubaneswar: Kin of some deceased government staff held a demonstration and some of them attempted to set themselves on fire in front of minister Debi Prasad Mishra's official residence here today for "proper" implementation of Orissa Civil Service (Rehabilitation Scheme) Rules.

At least 20 protesters were held as they attempted self-immolation by pouring kerosene in front of the state School & Mass Education minister's official residence, police said.

According to the provisions of Odisha Civil Service (Rehabilitation Scheme) Rules, 1990, family members of any state government employee possessing similar educational qualification as that of the staff will get government job if the employee dies during the period of his service.

The School and Mass Education Department in 2013 had sent the names of 595 persons to the state government for approval regarding their rehabilitation appointment.

"The rehabilitation rule promised to provide regular appointments in Group C and D posts. However, we were provided contractual jobs," claimed one of the agitators.

"Although being a deserving candidate we have been running from pillar to post for our legitimate right for the last 15 years. Our file moves to District Education Office and the officials there only give assurance of posting. We have already reached the age of 45 years," claimed Santosh Bal, a protester.

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