Malkangiri: In an effort to restore harmony and strengthen social cohesion, Malkangiri District Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay and Superintendent of Police Vinod Patil on Monday visited the villages of Rakhalguda, Mariwada, Niliguda and MV-18, where they held direct interactions with local residents and addressed prevailing concerns.
During the discussions, the District Collector emphasised the need for unity and mutual understanding, stating that safeguarding the future of coming generations depends on maintaining brotherhood among communities. He urged villagers to resolve differences through dialogue and open conversation, stressing that misunderstandings can only be removed when people engage with one another constructively. The Collector appealed to residents of all four villages to make collective efforts to rebuild trust and social bonds.
Superintendent of Police Vinod Patil advised villagers to promptly report any law-and-order related issues directly to him or the local police administration. In view of the prevailing sensitive situation in the region, the SP cautioned against the circulation of fake news or rumours on social media platforms, warning that such acts could create fear and instability. He further stated that strict legal action would be initiated against anyone found spreading misinformation.
The District Collector also took note of basic civic and welfare-related issues raised by villagers during the visit. He directed the concerned Tehsildars to ensure speedy issuance of land pattas for homesteads of tribal residents. On learning about a girl student from Niliguda village who had dropped out of school, the Collector immediately instructed the Block Development Officer to enrol her in a nearby school equipped with hostel facilities. Addressing parents present at the meeting, he underlined the importance of education, particularly for girls, and highlighted its role in social and economic empowerment.
Responding positively to the assurances given by the District Collector and the SP, villagers from the four settlements expressed their willingness to maintain peace and uphold brotherhood among themselves.
The visit is being seen as part of ongoing peace-building initiatives in the region following recent communal tensions between tribal and Bengali-settler communities in nearby villages, including Rakhalguda and MV-26. The tension arose following a murder case and subsequent arson earlier this month, prompting the district administration to intensify confidence-building measures at the grassroots level.
