NCST Demands Action Report on Malkangiri Tribal Woman’s Killing
The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has issued notices to the District Collector and Superintendent of Police of Malkangiri district following reports of a violent clash between Bengali settlers and members of the indigenous Koya tribe.
The incident was triggered earlier this month when police recovered the body of a Koya tribal woman from Rakhelguda village near a riverbank.
The subsequent detention of a youth from the nearby MV-26 village sparked outrage among tribal groups. In retaliation, over a thousand tribals armed with traditional weapons vandalised vehicles, shops, and structures in MV-26, a settlement with a significant Bengali refugee population. More than 100 houses were set ablaze, forcing residents to flee.
To contain the escalating violence, armed police and Border Security Forces (BSF) were deployed, and internet services were suspended.
The district administration later held peace talks with leaders from both communities, who agreed to maintain law and order.
Taking serious note of the incident, the NCST has sought a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and allegations of tribal rights violations.
The Commission directed authorities to clarify the steps taken to ensure justice, protect tribal rights, and restore peace. The District Collector and Superintendent of Police have been instructed to submit action-taken reports within three days.
The NCST emphasised that safeguarding the dignity and security of Scheduled Tribes is a constitutional responsibility, warning that any lapse will be viewed seriously.
