The long-standing border dispute between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh has resurfaced after reports that the Andhra Pradesh government is planning to conduct elections in the disputed Kotia Gram Panchayat of Koraput district. The Odisha government is reportedly preparing to approach the Supreme Court, alleging that Andhra Pradesh’s move violates the apex court’s status quo order.
The state government is considering its legal options to challenge the proposed electoral exercise. The Advocate General (AG) will decide whether to seek the reopening of the existing contempt petition or file a fresh case before the Supreme Court.
Meanwhile, Koraput Sub-Collector Fabi Rashid has announced a three-day visit to Kotia beginning Wednesday. During the visit, the young IAS officer will interact with local residents, assess their problems and review the prevailing situation in the border panchayat.
The administration has reiterated its commitment to protecting Odisha’s territorial integrity and interests. Officials have stated that legal action against any alleged violation of the Supreme Court’s status quo order will be pursued more vigorously.
Dharmendra Pradhan Reiterates Odisha’s Claim Over Kotia
Amid the renewed dispute, former Union Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan has reiterated the importance of Kotia to Odisha and called for a united effort to resolve the long-standing border issue.
“Kotia is a symbol of Odisha’s identity, sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Pradhan said, emphasising its significance for the state and the Odia people.
He described the prolonged border dispute as a matter of concern and appealed to political leaders across party lines to come together to protect Odisha’s interests and find a lasting solution.
Pradhan Recalls Previous Visits and Letters
Pradhan said he had personally visited Kotia in April 2018, February 2019 and April 2023 to assess the situation on the ground.
He also recalled writing to former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on November 18, 2020, and October 31, 2022, regarding the recurring border dispute and alleged interference by Andhra Pradesh in the region.
Additionally, he wrote to then Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on September 22, 2021, urging steps to address the issue.
Calls for Dialogue and Permanent Resolution
Pradhan stressed that political leaders have an important responsibility to resolve the dispute through constructive engagement. He called for cordial discussions at the highest level to create a favourable atmosphere for negotiations and establish a permanent solution.
With the proposed election-related developments bringing Kotia back into focus, the dispute is once again drawing attention to the legal and administrative challenges surrounding the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border.