Bhubaneswar: The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has initiated a swift investigation into a reported conflict between Bengali settlers and tribal communities in Odisha’s Malkangiri district, following a complaint alleging serious rights violations.
The Commission has issued a formal notice to the state authorities, demanding a detailed factual report and action taken within three days. The case centers on an alleged assault on a woman from the Koya tribe and purported infringements of tribal land rights.
The notice, dated December 17, 2025, cites a representation from Satya Ranjan Chhatria, an executive member of the Indian Confederation of Indigenous and Tribal People. Based on this complaint, the NCST has invoked its powers under Article 338A of the Constitution of India to investigate the matter.
The notice, signed by Deputy Director P. Kiran Kumar, is addressed to the top district administration and police officials of Malkangiri. It explicitly states, “You are hereby requested to submit the facts and information on the action taken on the said allegation(s) to the Commission within 3 days of receipt of this notice.”
It further reminds the authorities of the Commission’s legal authority, noting it “may exercise the powers of a Civil Court” and can “issue summons for your appearance in person or by a representative.”
The trigger for the NCST’s intervention is a complaint detailing a clash in Malkangiri district. The core allegation involves an incident concerning a Koya tribal woman and claims of violations of the protective legal framework meant for tribal communities. The region has historically seen tensions over land and resources between settled tribal populations and migrant communities.
The district administration’s response, due imminently, will determine the Commission’s subsequent course of action. This could include a hearing, a spot inquiry, or further directives to the state government to ensure compliance with safeguards for Scheduled Tribes.
