Kotia Row / Kotia stands united as Odisha foils Andhra poll bid in border villages

Bhubaneswar, Nov 5: Odisha's administration and police have successfully prevented residents of a border village in Malkangiri district from participating in Andhra Pradesh's local elections, while a strong show of unity in the disputed Kotia region of Koraput helped counter attempts to conduct polls in Odisha territory.

Authorities deployed extensive security arrangements in Jumudang village, located along the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border in Malkangiri district, after it was found that some residents had their names listed in Andhra Pradesh's voter rolls.

To prevent any cross-border voting, the administration established strict surveillance measures and deployed two platoons of police personnel around the village.

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Checkposts were set up on key access routes, while the movement of people was closely monitored throughout the polling process.

Officials said coordinated efforts by the district administration, police, local political leaders and tribal organisations helped persuade villagers not to participate in the Andhra Pradesh elections.

In response to longstanding demands from residents for better access to government services and welfare benefits, the administration organised a special service camp in Jumudang village. Authorities assured villagers that all eligible beneficiaries would receive government assistance and support.

Meanwhile, in the sensitive Kotia region of Koraput district, Odisha witnessed an unprecedented display of unity against Andhra Pradesh's attempts to hold panchayat elections in areas claimed by Odisha. Political leaders, volunteers, local residents and officials joined hands to oppose the exercise.

The Koraput administration, led by Sub-Collector Fabi Rasheed, maintained a strong presence in the region and remained on high alert through the night. Officials worked closely with local communities to ensure that Odisha's position was upheld.

A major breakthrough came in Nerediwalsa, where firm administrative action reportedly forced Andhra Pradesh polling teams to retreat. As a result, Andhra authorities are understood to have shifted polling arrangements elsewhere instead of conducting elections in the disputed village.