Koraput: Villagers in the Swabhiman Aanchal and interior pockets of Kalimela, Mathili and Khairput blocks in Malkangiri district voluntarily dismantled 20 memorial structures between Tuesday and Thursday, locally known as ‘martyrs pillars’, that were earlier erected by cadres of the banned CPI (Maoist). According to police, the decision was taken collectively by the villagers, who said the structures no longer represented their aspirations. Residents stated that years of extremist influence had brought fear, disrupted essential services and hindered development in the region.Malkangiri SP Vinod Patil described the move as a clear sign of growing public confidence in the administration and a strong desire for lasting peace. “This is a very positive and encouraging development. The decision was taken voluntarily by the villagers themselves. It shows that people now seek peace, stability and development rather than conflict and isolation,” Patil said.He added that sustained efforts by the district police, in close coordination with the civil administration, played a crucial role in rebuilding trust in previously affected areas.“Through continuous area domination, community policing initiatives, civic action programmes and various welfare measures, we have been able to instill confidence among the local population. The removal of these structures reflects a shift in the mindset and aspirations of the people,” Patil said.DIG (south-western range) Kanwar Vishal Singh said that with Malkangiri recently being declared Naxal-free, such initiatives further reinforce the progress made on the ground. “Our focus remains on maintaining peace, ensuring security and supporting development initiatives. The police will continue to work closely with the community to promote inclusive growth and safeguard the hard-earned stability in the district,” Singh added.Local residents said the remaining memorial structures would be dismantled in the coming days. “Malkangiri was once identified with Maoist violence. This development sends a strong message against extremism and marks a significant step towards consolidating peace in the district,” Rama Madkami, a resident of Kalimela, said.
