Kotia Dispute / AP State Election Commission seeks report on Kotia poll dispute

Amaravati/ Bhubaneswar, Nov 3: The Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission has asked the Parvathipuram Manyam district administration to examine objections raised by an advocate and human rights activist regarding the conduct of local body elections in Kotia Gram Panchayat and submit a detailed factual report, officials said on Tuesday.

According to the letter dated November 3, 2026, the Commission has sought verification of the issues raised and appropriate action under applicable laws and instructions.

Election Jurisdiction Objection

The communication, issued by Joint Director P. Rama Rao, was addressed to the Collector and District Election Authority of Parvathipuram Manyam district.

The letter refers to a representation submitted on November 3 by Anup Kumar Patro, an advocate and human rights activist, who raised objections concerning administrative jurisdiction over the Kotia Gram Panchayat area and the conduct of local body elections scheduled for November 5, 2026.

Patro has alleged that the Kotia area falls within Odisha's notified Fifth Schedule Area, raising concerns over the proposed electoral exercise.

The State Election Commission has forwarded the representation to the district administration, asking it to examine the allegations and verify the factual aspects in consultation with the concerned authorities.
Also Read: Human rights activist urges Centre to halt Andhra Panchayat Polls in Odisha’s Kotia

Report Sought Immediately

The Commission has directed the district administration to take necessary action in accordance with applicable laws and instructions and furnish a detailed factual report, along with details of action taken, immediately for further consideration.

A copy of the communication was also forwarded to Patro.

The letter seeks verification of the objections and does not itself pronounce any final decision on the jurisdictional dispute or the proposed elections.