What Happened in Malkangiri? Law and Order in Crisis
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Synopsis
In Malkangiri, unrest has surged after the grim discovery of a headless body, prompting internet suspension and a strong police presence. The situation raises urgent questions about community safety and law enforcement's response.
Key Takeaways
- Internet services suspended in Malkangiri district.
- Prohibitory orders enforced under Section 163 of the BNSS Act.
- Police flag march conducted to restore peace.
- Over 5,000 tribal individuals gathered, some turning violent.
- Murder investigation ongoing with heightened security measures.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 8 (NationPress) Internet services have been halted in Malkangiri district due to a deteriorating law-and-order situation, particularly in the village of MV-26. This escalation follows the discovery of a headless woman's body in the Poteru river near Dudumetla.
The District Collector announced via the official X handle that internet access will be suspended throughout the district starting at 6 PM today for a duration of 24 hours.
The local administration has enforced prohibitory measures under Section 163 of the BNSS Act in the area.
To quell the unrest, Malkangiri Police undertook a flag march.
Superintendent of Police, Malkangiri, Vinodh Patil H., has urged residents to maintain peace and avoid any violent actions.
Reports indicate that over 5,000 tribal individuals, armed with traditional weapons, gathered at MV-25 village, with some segments of the assembly turning aggressive.
Accounts revealed that protesters began ransacking, heightening tensions between MV-26 and Rakhalguda villages.
This unrest is tied to the murder of Lake Padiami, a resident of Rakhalguda, whose headless body was found in the river approximately four days ago. The victim had previously been reported missing at the Korukonda police station, and locals' anger is escalating as her head remains unaccounted for.
Protesting tribal members claim that one Suka Ranjan Mandal from MV-26 village is responsible for Padiami's murder, allegedly over a land dispute.
Previously, vandals are said to have caused property damage and set fire to haystacks and homes in MV-26 village, exacerbating the situation on Sunday.
The ongoing violence has raised significant concerns regarding public safety in the region.
In response, the administration has dispatched eight platoons of police and two platoons of BSF to restore law and order.
Superintendent of Police Vinodh Patil, along with senior police officials, is on-site closely monitoring developments.
Police have ramped up patrols and security measures in sensitive villages, while investigations into the murder continue.
The authorities have called upon the public to stay calm and cooperate with law enforcement to help restore peace.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the situation in Malkangiri with a commitment to factual reporting. The unrest highlights significant social issues and the urgent need for effective law enforcement response in the face of rising violence. The community's safety and the rule of law must be prioritized while ensuring that the grievances of the people are addressed through dialogue and justice.
NationPress
09/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the internet suspended in Malkangiri?
The internet was suspended due to escalating law-and-order issues following the discovery of a headless body, to prevent the spread of unrest.
What triggered the unrest in MV-26 village?
The unrest was triggered by the murder of Lake Padiami, with locals alleging that Suka Ranjan Mandal is responsible for the crime due to a land dispute.
How is the local administration responding to the situation?
The local administration has deployed police forces, imposed prohibitory orders, and conducted flag marches to restore order.
What actions have the protesters taken?
Protesters have gathered in large numbers, some engaging in violent acts such as ransacking and damaging properties.
What are the authorities advising the public?
Authorities are urging the public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to help restore normalcy.
