Malyabanta Mahotsav postponed as restrictions continue in Malkangiri

The Malkangiri district administration has postponed the popular Malyabanta Mahotsav in view of the prevailing law and order situation in the region. The festival, earlier scheduled to be held from December 14 to 18, has now been deferred to January, with the final dates to be announced after further assessment.

Internet Curbs Extended, Officials Review Ground Situation

To maintain peace and prevent any untoward incidents, the district administration has extended internet restrictions from 12 midnight on Thursday to 12 midnight on Friday.

Meanwhile, Southern Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC) Sangram Keshari Mohapatra and the District Collector visited MV 26 on Thursday to review the ground situation and assess the impact of recent disturbances.

All Necessary Measures Will Be Taken: RDC

Speaking on the situation, Southern RDC Sangram Keshari Mohapatra acknowledged the scale of damage and praised the district administration for its response.

“There has been massive loss of property, which cannot be expressed in words. I thank the Collector and his team for managing the situation effectively. The fact that we can move around at night and people still have faith in the administration is a major achievement,” he said.

He added that the visit was undertaken on the directions of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and that he remains in constant coordination with local officials.

“All necessary measures will be taken. People are being provided with blankets and dry rations,” the RDC said.

Security Stepped Up, Restoration Work Underway

As part of heightened security arrangements, around 2,000 police personnel have been deployed across the district to maintain calm and order.

Electricity supply is being restored gradually, while repair work is underway for houses that can be salvaged. Several homes were reportedly damaged in the violence, prompting the administration to initiate immediate rehabilitation measures.

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Safety Prioritised Ahead of Cultural Event

Officials said the decision to postpone the Mahotsav was taken considering the large crowds the annual cultural event usually attracts. The administration will announce the revised schedule after reviewing the situation in the coming weeks, with safety remaining the top priority.