Jeypore: Inter-state tensions escalated sharply along the disputed Odisha–Andhra Pradesh border on Thursday as local residents from the contested Kotia cluster crossed over to neighbouring Andhra Pradesh territory to cast their votes in elections to Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituencies (MPTCs) and Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituencies (ZPTCs)
According to sources, the locals navigated strict border checkpoints to reach polling facilities established in Sarika village on the Andhra Pradesh side despite bolstered security, intensive surveillance, and prohibitory orders enforced under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) by Koraput authorities.
The high-voltage administrative standoff had reached a flashpoint following direct face-offs between officials and police personnel from both states on Tuesday. Following intense pushback from Koraput administrative officials stationed in the area, Andhra Pradesh authorities were blocked from erecting local polling booths directly within the core disputed settlements.
In a bid to defuse the immediate crisis, Andhra Pradesh shifted its proposed polling booth to Sarika village in Vizianagaram district, about 1.5 km away from Neridivalsa. Following the retreat of visiting polling personnel from the core area, local residents and leaders allied with Odisha celebrated by performing traditional Dhemsa dances.
The cross-border voting, however, has now sparked severe political backlash within Odisha. Local leaders strongly questioned how residents who regularly receive various state-sponsored welfare benefits, infrastructure, and healthcare services from Odisha could choose to vote in Andhra Pradesh elections.
Also Read: Post-Clash Kotia Talks: Andhra Scraps Border Polling Plans As Odisha Doubles Police Presence
The territorial dispute dates back to 1968, when Odisha first moved the Supreme Court alleging administrative encroachment by Andhra Pradesh over 21 villages in the Kotia belt. While the apex court had directed both states to maintain a status quo, Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari accused Andhra Pradesh of violating judicial mandates and attempting to lure voters.
The Odisha government filed a fresh contempt petition in the Supreme Court following the election notification and deployed around 16 police platoons along with 16 magistrates across strategic border points. Odisha Police also removed an Andhra Pradesh police post operating from Upper Sembi as part of broader enforcement measures. As part of the outreach efforts, health and public service camps were organised in several villages of Kotia panchayat by the Koraput administration, as well.
Nonetheless, as residents remain caught in a dual-voter-ID administrative tug-of-war, the episode highlights the urgent need for a definitive, permanent legal resolution between the two states.