Bhubaneswar, 11 December (H.S.): The Malkangiri district administration on Thursday extended the suspension of social media services for another 12 hours, keeping the restriction in place until 12 pm on December 12. The ban covers platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and X, and has been prolonged due to the prevailing sensitive law-and-order situation.

This marks the fourth consecutive extension. Internet services were initially blocked on December 8 for 24 hours, followed by an 18-hour extension on December 9. The district administration extended the ban again on December 10 for another 24 hours. The latest extension comes as authorities continue efforts to prevent the spread of inflammatory content and maintain public order.

The restrictions were imposed after violent clashes broke out between two villages following the recovery of a headless body on December 4. The administration stated that the extended suspension is necessary to curb misinformation and ensure peace in the region.

Malkangiri District Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay visited the affected village on Thursday to review the situation. Officials assessed damaged houses, broken furniture, and uprooted trees, and have begun providing relief support to affected families. A free kitchen has been set up to supply cooked meals, and blankets have been distributed to help villagers cope with the cold weather.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda