Bhubaneswar, Oct 18: Odisha Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari today reaffirmed that Kotia belongs to Odisha, asserting that the state government is taking steps to counter Andhra Pradesh’s attempts to conduct elections in the disputed border region.

The Minister’s remarks come amid renewed concerns over Andhra Pradesh’s electoral activities in Kotia, a region at the centre of a long-standing territorial dispute between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

Pujari said the government is closely monitoring Andhra Pradesh’s activities in Kotia and has instructed the Southern Divisional Revenue Commissioner to keep a watch on developments in the area.

“Kotia belongs to Odisha. We are making efforts to thwart Andhra Pradesh’s attempts,” the Revenue Minister said, emphasizing the state government’s commitment to protecting Odisha’s interests.

Andhra Pradesh is scheduled to hold elections on October 28, and the Odisha government has appealed to the people of Kotia to stand with the state.

The Minister expressed confidence that the local residents support Odisha.

The minister also noted that Andhra Pradesh has repeatedly created a stir around elections in Kotia, both in the past and at present. He recalled visiting the region along with the Congress Legislature Party leader and senior legislators, adding that they are aware of the situation on the ground.

Pujari urged those raising complaints over the issue to join the efforts to safeguard Odisha’s interests, stressing that protecting Kotia is not solely the responsibility of the government but a collective responsibility.

He further stated that the Odisha government has provided various facilities and development benefits to the residents of Kotia.