Internet shutdown in Malkangiri extended by 18 hours amid tension

In view of the prevailing tension in Malkangiri, particularly in MV-26 and Rakhelguda villages, the suspension of internet services in the district has been extended by another 18 hours.

As per official sources, the administration issued an order on Tuesday to continue the shutdown of internet connectivity till 12 PM on Wednesday.

A notification released by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department stated that the extension has been imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order in the region.

"In continuation to Home Notification No. 50052/CP&M, dated 08.12.2025 and as per the request of Collector & District Magistrate, Malkangiri vide his Letter No.261/Res. Dated 9.12.2025, I, Shri Satyabrata Sahu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Home Department do hereby extend prohibition of the use and access of social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, X and any other through internet and other medium of data services for another 18 hours upto 12:00 P.M. of 10.12.2025 in Malkangiri district under the provisions of Section 20 of the TELECOMMUNICATION ACT, 2023 read with the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024 and remaining all other conditions unaltered," read the notification.

Also Read: Malkangiri unrest: Violence, protests prevail over headless woman’s body; Odisha DGP visits site

"This order shall not be applicable to Government internet and intranet based services, such as OSWAN (Odisha State Wide Area Network), NIC Net, NKN (National Knowledge Network), Banking, Railways or any other government services. Violation of the order shall be dealt with in accordance with the relevant provision of law," it further read.

Notably, tension continues to grip Malkangiri district as clashes between MV-26 and Rakhelguda villages intensified following the recovery of a headless body of a woman. The incident has triggered arson and unrest in the district.