Malkangiri, Dec 9: The Malkangiri district administration has extended the ongoing internet shutdown by another 18 hours, keeping the restriction in force until 12 PM on Wednesday. The decision was taken following consultations with the RDC and the District Collector, and a directive has been issued by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department. However, internet services for government offices, banking institutions, and the railways remain operational.
Amid heightened security, the headless body of the woman was brought to Rākhalguda village, where her last rites were performed. In accordance with tribal customs, a clay head was crafted and buried with the body, as the victim’s head remains untraced. The cremation took place on the woman’s disputed agricultural land, attended by tribal leaders from across the district. Senior officials, including the South-Western Range DIG, the Malkangiri SP, and the District Collector, were present during the ceremony.
Authorities have established a temporary police camp at the burial site, with security personnel assigned to guard the grave for the next several months. To maintain order, 10 companies of CRPF have been deployed, adding to the already significant presence of 20 platoons of CRPF, OSAP, IRB, and Odisha Police stationed in the nearby MV-26 area. The village has effectively transformed into a security zone, with police personnel positioned along all approach roads.
Entry of outsiders into the village has been strictly prohibited as part of ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
