Malkangiri Violence: NCST seeks report from Collector, SP

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has issued a notice seeking an action taken report (ATR) from Malkangiri District Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP) in connection with a previous group clash that had ensued between Bengali settlers and tribal communities in the district, official sources said on Thursday.

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The incident had come to light following the alleged killing of a woman a few days ago, which triggered tension between the two groups.

Conflict between Bengali settlers and tribal people in Malkangiri district had erupted after the alleged murder of a Koya tribal woman. A representation on ‘violation of the tribal rights’ was subsequently submitted by an Executive Member of the Indian Confederation of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, South East Zone (Andhra and Southern Odisha).

Taking serious note of the rising unrest and the subsequent violent incidents, the NCST has sought a detailed report from the district administration. The Commission observed that the situation escalated due to growing tension between the two communities, leading to law and order concerns.

In its notice, the NCST has directed the Collector and the SP to submit their responses within three days, explaining the circumstances that led to the conflict and the steps taken to restore peace and protect tribal interests. The ST Commission’s intervention highlights the gravity of the issue and the need for prompt administrative action.

“Whereas a Petition has been received by National Commission for Scheduled Tribes from Smt Ramalaxmi Guduturi dated Nil as enclosed, and the Commission has decided to investigate/ inquire into the matter in pursuance of the powers conferred upon it under Article 338A of the Constitution of India,” the Commission’s notice read.

“You are hereby requested to submit the facts and information on the action taken on the said allegations/ matters to the Commission within 3 days of receipt of this notice either by post or in person, or by any other means of communication,” the notice stated.