Malkangiri violence: Internet services restored after 8 days of suspension

Internet services in Odisha’s Malkangiri district were restored on Monday after remaining suspended for nearly eight days following incidents of violence. The services were made fully operational in the afternoon, bringing relief to residents who had been facing severe inconvenience due to the prolonged shutdown.

Also Read: Malkangiri unrest: Six more held in connection with MV-26 clash; arrest count reaches 15

The internet restriction was first imposed last Monday at around 6.00 PM as a preventive measure after violence erupted over a dispute involving MV-26 and Rakhelguda village. To maintain law and order and prevent the spread of rumours, the district administration had enforced the shutdown, which remained in place till 12 noon today.

During this period, the restriction was previously extended six times in phases as the situation had remained sensitive. The prolonged suspension disrupted daily life, affecting communication, online services, education, banking, and urgent needs of the people.

With the ground situation now under control, the district administration decided to lift the restriction and restore normal internet services. Officials said the district continues to be monitored closely to ensure peace and stability are maintained.

Residents have welcomed the decision, hoping normalcy will return fully in the coming days.

Worth mentioning, police have arrested six more persons in connection with the violent clash reported from the MV-26 locality of Malkangiri district, taking the total number of arrests in the violence case to 15, official sources said on Sunday (yesterday).

Nine people were arrested earlier as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident. The arrests come even as the overall situation in the violence-hit region is showing signs of gradual improvement.

The district administration has already estimated the total damage caused due to violence at around Rs 3.80 crore. Officials said extensive damage was reported to public and private properties during the unrest.