Malkangiri Social Media Ban Extended Until December 11 Amid Law and Order Concerns
The Odisha Government has extended restrictions on social media platforms in Malkangiri district for another 24 hours, reinforcing earlier directives issued on December 8 and 9.
The order, effective until 12:00 P.M. on December 11, 2025, prohibits the use of WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and other platforms on public internet and data services.
The notification was issued by Shri Satyabrata Sahu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government, Home Department, following a request from the Collector and District Magistrate of Malkangiri.
It cites Section 20 of the Telecommunication Act, 2023, and the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024.
Authorities clarified that government networks such as OSWAN, NIC Net, and NKN, along with essential services including banking and railways, remain unaffected. Officials warned that violations of the directive would invite strict legal action.
The restrictions come in the wake of heightened tensions linked to a murder investigation. Police recently recovered the severed head of a woman nearly 40 kilometres from where her headless body was found on December 4.
The incident had sparked disputes between MV‑26 and Rakhelguda villages, prompting peace talks and forensic examinations to prevent further unrest.
The administration emphasised that the suspension aims to prevent misuse of social media during sensitive situations and urged residents to cooperate with the directive.
