Koraput, Nov 3 (UDN): Tension gripped the Kotia border region in Odisha’s Koraput district on Tuesday after police personnel from Odisha and neighbouring Andhra Pradesh came face-to-face at the Nerellavalasa checkpost, triggering a heated exchange over the movement of Andhra police personnel into the area.
According to reports, Odisha Police intervened and stopped their Andhra Pradesh counterparts from allegedly attempting to enter the area, leading to a tense confrontation. The situation reportedly intensified when the Koraput Sub-Collector and Patangi Tehsildar also became involved in a verbal exchange with the Andhra police personnel.
The latest face-off comes a day after Odisha Police intercepted an Andhra Pradesh-registered truck at Nerellavalasa. The vehicle was allegedly transporting rice suspected to be Public Distribution System (PDS) stock to a warehouse in Andhra Pradesh. The incident has further heightened vigilance in the sensitive border region.
Security Beefed Up Ahead of November 5 Polls
With Andhra Pradesh scheduled to hold panchayat elections on November 5, Odisha authorities have stepped up security arrangements across the Kotia region to prevent any untoward incidents.
As part of the security measures, seven platoons of police personnel have been deployed in the area. Three check gates are being kept under round-the-clock surveillance to monitor movement and maintain law and order.
Additionally, nine executive magistrates have been assigned duties on a rotational basis to closely monitor developments and ensure administrative preparedness.
Administration Steps Up Outreach Activities
Alongside security measures, the Odisha administration has intensified public outreach initiatives in the border villages of Nerellavalasa, Phatusineri and Fagunsineri.
Officials are organising medical camps and awareness programmes to strengthen engagement with local residents and ensure the delivery of essential services.
Border Dispute Remains a Sensitive Issue
The latest confrontation once again brings the long-standing Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border dispute in Kotia into focus. The region has witnessed repeated administrative and political tensions over competing claims and activities by the two neighbouring states.
Odisha authorities have maintained close surveillance over developments in the area, with particular attention to activities that could affect the state’s administrative presence and the interests of local residents.
With the November 5 elections approaching, the latest police face-off has added another layer of tension to the already sensitive border situation. Authorities are keeping a close watch to prevent further escalation and maintain peace in the region.
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