Odishas Patnaik Expresses Concern Over Andhra Pradeshs Election Announcement in Kotia
Odishas Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik raises concerns over Andhra Pradeshs election announcement for Kotia, emphasizing regional integrity.
Bhubaneswar, October 19 (Daily Kiran) : In a significant political move, Odisha’s Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has voiced serious concerns regarding the announcement made by Andhra Pradesh about elections in the disputed region of Kotia. In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Mohan Chara Majhi, Patnaik emphasized that Kotia is an integral part of Odisha.
Patnaik recalled that during his tenure, the then-BJD government fought to protect the state’s territorial integrity. He pointed out that BJP leaders have historically asserted that Kotia belongs to Odisha, even rallying behind the slogan “Go Back Andhra.”
Targeting the ruling BJP, Patnaik questioned the party’s commitment to resolving the Kotia issue, which was promised in their 2024 election manifesto. He asked, “What happened to the assurances that the two-engine government would permanently resolve the Kotia matter and uphold Odisha’s regional integrity and Odia pride?”
The former Chief Minister expressed alarm that despite having a so-called ‘double-engine government’ in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh proceeded with its election announcement. He further inquired about the BJP’s previous assurances regarding Kotia’s status.
Patnaik also highlighted the role of the ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh, a significant ally of the BJP-led NDA government at the center. He questioned whether the silence of Odisha’s BJP government and its willingness to compromise on state interests stemmed from political dependency.
Additionally, Patnaik sought updates on the recommendations of the high-level Kotia committee formed in 2025, emphasizing that the people of Odisha deserve clear answers and accountability regarding these commitments. He urged the state government to remain steadfast in protecting Odisha’s territorial integrity and constitutional rights, rather than yielding to central pressure once again.
He concluded by challenging the government to take decisive action to maintain Odisha’s sovereignty over Kotia, stressing that the slogan “Go Back Andhra” should not be merely an electoral tactic among other unfulfilled promises.
