Odishas Patnaik Challenges Andhras Election Plans in Kotia Region
Odishas opposition leader Naveen Patnaik raises concerns over Andhra Pradeshs election announcement in Kotia, urging clarity from the state government.
Bhubaneswar, October 19 (Daily Kiran) : Bhubaneswar’s political landscape is heating up as Odisha’s opposition leader and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief, Naveen Patnaik, has formally expressed his concerns over Andhra Pradesh‘s announcement to hold elections in the Kotia region. In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Patnaik emphasized that Kotia is an integral part of Odisha and urged the state government to clarify its stance on the matter.
In his correspondence, Patnaik recalled the efforts made by his government to safeguard Odisha’s territorial integrity during his tenure. He pointed out that even Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders have historically claimed Kotia as part of Odisha, citing past slogans like “Go Back Andhra.”
With the 2024 elections approaching, Patnaik reminded the BJP of their promises made in their election manifesto, which included a commitment to resolve the Kotia dispute permanently, protect Odisha’s territorial integrity, and strengthen “Odia pride.” He questioned the current status of these pledges.
Patnaik expressed serious concern that despite having a “double engine” government in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh has proceeded with its election plans in Kotia. He also scrutinized the role of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which is a key ally of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance at the center. He raised the issue of whether political dependency is causing the Odisha BJP government to remain silent on this critical issue, thereby compromising the state’s interests and territorial integrity.
In his letter, Patnaik requested information regarding the recommendations made by the 16-member high-level Kotia committee formed in 2025 and the steps taken to implement them. He asserted that the people of Odisha deserve clear answers and accountability regarding these promises.
Patnaik concluded with a call for the state government to take decisive action to uphold Odisha’s rights over Kotia, questioning whether the “Go Back Andhra” slogan was merely an electoral gimmick, as has been the case with many unfulfilled promises. He urged the government to act decisively to protect the state’s interests.
