Normalcy began to return to a violence-hit village in Odisha’s Malkangiri district on Wednesday as about 300 displaced residents returned home, days after widespread arson and attacks forced them to flee. However, authorities have extended the suspension of internet services across the district as precautionary measures remain in place.
What sparked the violence in Malkangiri?
Tensions in the region escalated after the headless body of 51-year-old Lake Podiami, an indigenous woman from Rakhelguda, was found on the banks of the Poteru river on December 4. She has been missing since December 1st.
Enraged by the killings, local tribals vandalized nearly 200 houses in the Bengali settlement and set several houses on fire, sparking widespread displacement. Police said a large number of residents fled the violence.
While the woman was laid to rest on December 9, her severed head was recovered from the same river bank on Wednesday, about 15 km from where the torso was found. Authorities said the remains were handed over to her family after post-mortem and forensic procedures.
How did the residents return to the village?
Malkangiri District Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay told PTI that the people returned after amicable negotiations.
“Approximately 300 residents of MV-26 village who left their homes have returned after both the tribals and the Bengali settlers agreed to avoid violence and restore peace. We have opened a free kitchen and are providing food, blankets and other necessities to the affected people,” he said.
He added that a damage assessment is being carried out.
“Some houses and vehicles were also burnt. Relief will be provided as per rules,” Upadhyay noted.
Officials said there had been no violence in the past 50 hours, although a curfew remained in place in the two affected villages.
Why was the internet suspension extended?
The Odisha Home Department has extended the district-wide suspension of internet services for another 24 hours till Thursday noon. Officials said the move is aimed at preventing misinformation and limiting potential unrest as the situation stabilizes.
CCTV cameras have been installed in MV-26 and other vulnerable areas under Korkonda Police Station to monitor movement and deter further violence.
What security measures are in place?
Several companies of BSF and Odisha State Armed Police were deployed to maintain order. Patrols have been increased and community leaders are working with the administration to prevent further escalation.
Police have arrested Subha Ranjan Mandal (42) for allegedly killing Podiami Lake, a crime that sparked the riots. Investigations are ongoing.
