The recent mob attack on the Christian community in Kotamateru village in Malkangiri district has sparked State-wide outrage with over 10,000 people taking to the streets in a massive protest rally in Malkangiri on Wednesday. The protest, organised by the District Christian Mancha, highlighted the growing concerns over targeted violence against religious minorities in Odisha and demanded swift action from the State administration.
The rally, which commenced from the Babasaheb Ambedkar Statue and ended at the Malkangiri Collector’s office, saw people from various denominations and churches joining in solidarity. A memorandum was submitted to the Governor of Odisha through the District Magistrate outlining the urgent need for justice and protection for the victims of the June 21 attack.
According to the Mancha, more than thirty Christians were injured in the incident, some critically, after being allegedly assaulted by a mob in Matapaka GP. An FIR was registered at the Malkangiri police station the next day against sixteen named accused. However, as of July 2, not a single arrest has been made, sparking accusations of administrative apathy and police inaction.
The memorandum urged the Governor to ensure immediate arrests of the accused and a thorough, impartial investigation into the incident. It also sought enhanced security for the Christian population in the area, including establishment of a permanent police outpost in Kotamateru. Additionally, the Mancha demanded compensation, medical aid and psychological support for the injured victims.
The District Magistrate assured the protestors that the matter would be addressed after the return of the Superintendent of Police on July 4. However, the delay in action has drawn strong criticism with many fearing it sets a dangerous precedent of impunity.