Malkangiri violence: Curfew lifted, but Internet shutdown extended for another 36 hours

In a major development, Odisha's Malkangiri district, which witnessed violence and vandalism, is slowly returning to normalcy, informed District Collector Somesh Upadhyay on Saturday. However, while Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) was revoked, the administration extended the internet shutdown for another 36 hours, until 12 noon on Monday.

Addressing a press meet, Malkangiri Collector and SP stated that the restriction has been continued to prevent the spread of rumours and to ensure peace and stability in the area. On the other hand, police have arrested six persons in connection with the violence.

“Normalcy is returning in the district following the violence that broke out in MV-26 village following a murder. The majority of residents who had fled the village after the arson have returned. We have lifted the curfew, while the internet ban has been extended for another 36 hours till Monday at 12 PM noon. We had also held a meeting of the peace committee of both parties, and they have agreed amicably to a conclusion. Everyone is working towards the return of peace. In the future, also continue talks with the peace committee,” the Collector informed.

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Meanwhile, the assessment of damage caused during the unrest has increased by Rs 40 lakh. While the loss was earlier estimated at Rs 3.40 crore, the revised assessment now places the total damage at approximately Rs 3.80 crore. 

Authorities are continuing the evaluation process and preparing further relief and rehabilitation measures for the affected residents.

Meanwhile, water supply and electricity services have been fully restored, and most residents who had temporarily left the village have returned to their homes. The situation on the ground has improved, with peace gradually returning.

To instil confidence among the local population and ensure security, police forces remain deployed in the area and are conducting regular flag marches. The administration is also providing cooked food and dry rations to affected families. Officials have assured that schools, which were closed as a precautionary measure, will be reopened soon.

The district administration continues to closely monitor the situation and has reiterated its commitment to restoring complete normalcy in the region.