Odisha's Majhi calls for depoliticisation of Kotia territorial dispute

In a letter dated October 19, Patnaik raised concerns over Andhra Pradesh's announcement of elections in Kotia, asserting that the village falls within Odisha's territorial jurisdiction. The former CM's correspondence underscores the persistent friction between the two states over the enclave, which has remained a point of contention despite previous attempts at resolution.

Patnaik urged stakeholders not to use the dispute as a political tool, emphasising the need for a principled approach to the matter. His intervention signals that Odisha remains committed to its territorial claims despite changes in state leadership.

The Kotia dispute dates back several decades, with both states claiming sovereignty over the village situated in Odisha's Koraput district. The issue has periodically surfaced during electoral cycles and administrative reorganisation efforts, complicating inter-state relations.

The matter assumes significance as boundary disputes in eastern India often reflect broader questions of regional identity and administrative jurisdiction. Patnaik's letter indicates that Odisha intends to pursue diplomatic channels to resolve the disagreement while maintaining that any electoral or administrative action by Andhra Pradesh in the disputed territory would be considered an infringement of its rights.