Bhubaneswar: Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari has issued a strong warning to Andhra Pradesh over the long-standing Kotia border dispute, asserting that the region is an “inseparable and integral part of Odisha”. Following a visit to Kotia panchayat, Pujari emphasised that Odisha will not allow any unwanted interference by Andhra Pradesh to claim control over the area.
Using a maternal analogy, Pujari said, “Odisha is the mother of Kotia, while Andhra Pradesh may be the aunt. An aunt can never become a mother.” The Minister cautioned against any such attempts. He stated that Andhra Pradesh’s activities in the disputed region will be curtailed, as Odisha strengthens its administrative presence and accelerates development work.
Pujari assured residents of improved public services, highlighting initiatives in education, road connectivity, and welfare programmes. To address security concerns, a permanent police outpost will be established in Kotia to monitor cross-border activities, he announced.
