Kotia Row / Odisha tightens grip on Kotia, deploys more forces to counter Andhra poll push

Bhubaneswar, Nov 4: The long-standing border dispute between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh has intensified once again, with the Odisha government taking strong measures to thwart Andhra Pradesh's reported attempts to conduct electoral activities in the disputed Kotia region of Koraput district.

State Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari said that the government has decided to deploy eight additional platoons of police forces in Kotia to maintain law and order and prevent any activities that may affect Odisha's territorial claims over the region.

According to the minister, local residents have been removing posters put up by Andhra Pradesh authorities in the area. He said Odisha's sub-collector and other administrative officials are already present on the ground to closely monitor the situation.

Also read: Odisha Plans Massive Relocation Drive in Landslide-Prone Hills after Gidipabali Tragedy

Police personnel, government officials and leaders from various political parties are also keeping a close watch on developments in Kotia.

Pujari alleged that Andhra Pradesh is attempting to hold elections in the disputed region in violation of directions issued by the Supreme Court.

He stated that Odisha would initiate contempt proceedings against Andhra officials involved in the exercise and would also raise the issue before the Central Government.

The minister further said that the state government remains vigilant not only in Kotia but also in other border areas facing similar disputes.

Odisha is expected to seek formal discussions with Andhra Pradesh to address the recurring issues related to territorial claims and administrative jurisdiction.

Reiterating Odisha's stand, Pujari claimed that Kotia is administered by Odisha and has elected representatives, including a functioning sarpanch and panchayat samiti member under the state's governance framework.

He added that Odisha has developed roads and other infrastructure in the region and maintains police and administrative systems there. According to him, Andhra Pradesh does not have any official administrative office operating in Kotia.