What Happened in Malkangiri? Ministerial Delegation Reports to CM Mohan Majhi
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Synopsis
In a disturbing turn of events in Malkangiri, Odisha, a ministerial delegation led by Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo submitted a report to CM Mohan Majhi following violent outbursts triggered by the discovery of a tribal woman's headless body. The community's demand for peace amidst chaos highlights the ongoing tensions in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Violence erupted in Malkangiri following a tribal woman's murder.
- Over 50 homes were set ablaze during the unrest.
- Government actions include prohibitory orders and police deployment.
- Community dialogues are essential for restoring peace.
- Internet services have been suspended to prevent escalation.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 12 (NationPress) A ministerial delegation, spearheaded by Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo, presented its findings regarding the tumultuous events in the violence-stricken Malkangiri district. The recovery of a tribal woman's headless corpse has incited outrage among local tribal groups, leading to the arson of homes and destruction of properties belonging to numerous Bengali-speaking inhabitants of the MV-26 villages on December 7 and 8.
In a statement to the press, Gokulananda Mallick, the Minister for Fisheries and Animal Resources Development, remarked: "We have compiled a report based on our discussions with both Bengali-speaking and tribal communities and submitted it to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The Chief Minister will review the report and take suitable measures. It is crucial to note that both communities desire harmony, and it is the government's responsibility to guarantee that peace is upheld.”
Importantly, the ministers visited Malkangiri district on Thursday, where they engaged with various stakeholders alongside senior officials from the district administration and the Odisha Police.
Reports indicate that the murder of a 51-year-old tribal widow, Lake Padiami from Rakhalguda village—allegedly over a land dispute—sparked significant unrest among tribals from Rakhalguda and neighboring villages. Her headless body was discovered four days later, floating in a river, which incited violence on the following Sunday and Monday.
The enraged villagers ignited more than 50 homes and vandalized over 160 residences belonging to MV-26 villagers. Hundreds of Bengali-speaking families, who had migrated from Bangladesh decades ago, fled their homes, seeking refuge in nearby areas to escape the violence.
In light of the escalating tensions, the state administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS Act and suspended internet services throughout the district. Multiple platoons of the Central Armed Police Forces along with the Odisha Police have been deployed to avert further disturbances.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight that while the violence in Malkangiri reflects deep-rooted issues, it also underscores the urgent need for dialogue and reconciliation. The government's actions must prioritize restoring peace and addressing the grievances of both tribal and Bengali-speaking communities to prevent further escalations.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the violence in Malkangiri?
The violence was triggered by the murder of a tribal widow, Lake Padiami, whose headless body was discovered, leading to reactions from local tribal communities.
What actions has the government taken?
The government imposed prohibitory orders and suspended internet services in the district, deploying police forces to maintain order.
How have local residents responded?
Many Bengali-speaking families have fled their homes due to the violence, seeking refuge in nearby villages.
What is the government's plan moving forward?
The Chief Minister will review the report submitted by the delegation and is expected to take appropriate actions to restore peace.
Is there ongoing tension in the region?
Yes, the situation remains tense, with ongoing concerns for community safety and stability.
