Kotia Dispute: CM Majhi Slams Patnaik for 'Politicising' Border Row
Odisha CM Mohan Majhi urges Naveen Patnaik to stop politicising the Kotia boundary dispute and offer constructive solutions for the region.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has called upon Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik to move beyond political posturing and provide "constructive solutions" regarding the long-standing Kotia boundary dispute. In a strongly worded response to a letter from Patnaik, the Chief Minister reaffirmed that the state government is unwavering in its commitment to protecting Odisha's territorial integrity.
A Legacy of Ownership
Addressing the historical context of the conflict, CM Majhi asserted that the Kotia group of villages has been an inseparable part of Odisha since the state was first formed in 1936. He emphasized that the current administration remains firmly dedicated to safeguarding the legitimate interests and boundaries of the state.
Politics vs. Solutions
The Chief Minister did not hold back in his critique of Naveen Patnaik's approach. Referring to Patnaik's communication dated October 19, Majhi expressed disappointment, stating that the letter seemed to view the sensitive border issue through a political lens rather than seeking a legally sustainable resolution.
"In this context, I am constrained to observe that the contents of your letter appear to approach this sensitive issue from a political standpoint rather than advance constructive and legally tenable solutions for its resolution," Majhi wrote.
Development and Legal Strategy
While the legal battle continues, the Odisha government is focusing on winning hearts and minds through infrastructure and public services. CM Majhi highlighted that the state is utilizing all constitutional and legal channels to defend its claims while simultaneously accelerating growth in the disputed region.
To ensure this development is systematic, the government has implemented several administrative measures:
- Special Committee: A dedicated committee has been formed under the chairmanship of the Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management, supported by senior officials, to oversee the integrated development of the Kotia Gram Panchayat areas.
- Ground Assessment: Ministers and high-ranking officials are making regular visits to the region to evaluate local needs and coordinate essential initiatives.
- Inclusive Growth: The state is prioritizing the delivery of public services to enhance the overall well-being of the local population in Kotia and surrounding villages.
A Call for Judicial Respect
Given the volatility and sensitivity of the inter-state friction between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, the Chief Minister urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint. He stressed the importance of responsibility and respect for the ongoing judicial process, noting that the matter is currently being handled by the appropriate legal forums.
Closing his letter, CM Majhi extended an invitation to the Leader of the Opposition, asking Patnaik to share any genuine, constructive proposals that could help bring a final resolution to the long-pending dispute for the government's consideration.
What is the Kotia Dispute?
The Kotia group of villages, located in the Koraput district, has remained a point of contention for years, with both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh claiming administrative rights over the territory.