The Odisha government has extended the suspension of internet services in violence-hit Malkangiri district for another 24 hours as tensions remain high following the brutal killing of a tribal woman. Her severed head was recovered on Wednesday from the bank of the Poteru River, around 15 km from where her headless body was found on December 4.
The victim, identified as 51-year-old Lake Podiami of Rakhelguda village, had been missing since December 1. Her family lodged a missing complaint on December 3, and her body was discovered the following day. Police recovered the severed head near a Kanya Ashram and are examining it to determine the circumstances of the murder.
Prohibitory orders remain in place in Rakhelguda and MV-25 villages. Authorities extended the internet shutdown based on the recommendation of the district collector, as the previous ban was set to end at noon on Wednesday.
The woman&rsquo;s remains were buried under tight security on Tuesday in the presence of senior officials. However, the discovery of her head triggered large-scale violence on Sunday. Groups of tribals from Rakhelguda allegedly attacked MV-26, a Bengali settlement, damaging nearly 200 houses and setting several on fire.
Police have arrested Subha Ranjan Mandal in connection with the woman&rsquo;s murder, which is believed to have sparked the unrest.
Malkangiri District Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay said that relief efforts are underway. A free kitchen has been opened in MV-26 village, with food, blankets and essential supplies being distributed. Around 300 displaced residents have since returned and are staying in temporary shelters.

Severed head of tribal woman recovered; district tense as curbs continue

Malkangiri Extends Internet Ban After Violence

Severed head of tribal woman recovered; district tense as curbs continue

December 10, 2025 | 22:03 IST