Malkangiri clash: 300 return home; internet suspension extended

• Normalcy returns to a Malkangiri village as 300 residents, who fled a December 7 clash, return home after a peace committee meeting.
• Internet services in Malkangiri district have been extended for another 24 hours until Thursday noon.
• The violence erupted after the headless body of tribal woman Lake Podiami was found, leading to tribal residents vandalizing Bengali settlements.
• Security measures include prohibitory orders, CCTV cameras, and deployment of BSF and Odisha State Armed Police personnel.
• Police have arrested Subha Ranjan Mandal (42) in connection with the murder of Lake Podiami, which triggered the widespread violence.

Why It Matters: Malkangiri's fragile peace after ethnic violence impacts community stability.