Bhubaneswar, Oct 20: Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das on Tuesday accused the BJP of compromising Odisha’s interests to protect its government at the Centre, alleging that the party was remaining silent on the Kotia issue to retain the support of its ally, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP).

Reacting to the proposed election by the Andhra Pradesh government in disputed Kotia area, Das questioned the silence of the state government and demanded immediate intervention by the Revenue Minister and the Law Minister.

He alleged that the BJP was reluctant to take a firm stand on Kotia because the TDP’s withdrawal of support could threaten the stability of the BJP-led government at the Centre.

“The BJP is selling out the interests of its own land to save its government. It is maintaining silence to protect the TDP’s support at the Centre. What can a government do if it cannot protect its own territory?” Das asked.

Questioning the state government's response to the Kotia issue, the Congress leader asked why the Revenue Minister and the Law Minister had not visited the area immediately to assess the situation and take necessary steps.

He further alleged that the BJP government in Odisha was functioning like a “rubber stamp” and failing to safeguard the state's interests.

Referring to former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik's remarks on the issue, Das said Patnaik was right in raising concerns over the matter.

He reiterated that the BJP's dependence on the TDP for support at the Centre was the reason behind its alleged inaction on Kotia.

The PCC chief asserted that the Congress would not remain silent on the issue and would launch protests against any move that undermines Odisha's territorial interests.

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