Bhubaneswar: In a latest development, Andhra Pradesh officials faced protests in the disputed Kotia region of Koraput district, after they entered the controversial area and conducted a survey on the Agriculture and Livelihood Mission. The local police, Potangi BDO, and Tehsildar intervened, reprimanding the officials and asking them to leave.
This incident isn’t isolated. Andhra officials have repeatedly entered Kotia, promoting government schemes, sparking tensions with Odisha authorities. Recently, an Andhra health team provided services in Talaganjei Padar village, only to be stopped by the Pattangi Block Administration.
The Kotia region has long been a point of contention between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, with both states claiming ownership. The situation is further complicated by the fact that some villagers hold dual identity cards, receiving benefits from both states.
The Odisha government has formed a 16-member committee to address the issue and ensure integrated development in the region. The committee aims to strengthen Odia language, culture, and tradition in the border areas
