This is not just an incident of arson, but a serious sign of social tension, distrust and challenge to law and order. The administration has intensified the investigation, security forces are deployed, but the question remains, how did the MV-26 reach here?
What is the whole matter?
The crux of the case lies in the murder of Lake Padiyami (51), who was a resident of nearby village Rakhalguda. She was missing since December 1 and on December 4, her mutilated body was found on the river bank. The allegation is that he was murdered and beheaded. After this incident, on the morning of 8 December, a tribal mob armed with weapons attacked the MV-26.
How did the violence erupt and why was the village evacuated?
It was feared locally that some people from MV-26 were involved in the murder. On the basis of this suspicion the mob set fire to the village. More than 150 houses were burnt, many people were injured and 188 families fled the village overnight out of fear. Today the village is completely empty and patrolling by security forces is going on.
Some families returned on December 9 to see the damage, but left again out of fear.
Who are the people of MV-26?
Most of the people living in MV-26 are Hindu immigrants who came from Bangladesh decades ago and got Indian citizenship. He had established a new life here. The elders say that 50 years of hard work turned to ashes in a few hours. The community has condemned the murder and demanded strict punishment for the culprits.
Administration and police action
After the incident, the district administration formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Odisha DGP Y. B. Khurania visited the area along with senior officials to prevent the situation from worsening and the possibility of Maoists taking advantage of the situation. Prohibitory orders are in force in both villages Rakhalguda and MV-26. Internet services were temporarily suspended.
actions so far
- Arrest of Subha Ranjan Mandal (42) on charges of murder.
- Prohibitory order in MV-26 and Rakhalguda.
- Constant patrolling of security forces.
- Formation of SIT and forensic investigation.
- Peace meeting: Both sides agreed to cooperate.
- Relief work: Temporary shelter, food, blankets and essential materials.
Political resonance and debate in the assembly
The matter reached Odisha Assembly. Opposition BJD called it a serious law and order issue and demanded a statement from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The government said that immediate action has been taken on the situation and all steps are being taken to restore peace.
Dilemma of returning under the shadow of fear
Some families returned on December 9 to see the damage, but left again out of fear. Representatives of the Bengali Settlers Association said that the community wants justice, not revenge. He says that burning the entire village is not the solution to any crime.
What is the way forward?
The administration says that work on relief and rehabilitation is going on. Along with restoring peace, the biggest challenge is to restore trust. The incident also showed how rumour, mistrust and a sense of quick justice can turn into mass violence.
