Jeypore, Nov 5 (UDN): Security has been significantly tightened along the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border as polling is underway at two booths in Andhra Pradesh for elections in the disputed Kotia region, amid continuing tension over jurisdiction and allegations of pressure on voters.
Voting is being held at Tonam and Saraki booths for the Fatusineri and Neredibalsa areas under Kotia panchayat. The developments have prompted heightened vigilance by the Odisha administration, which is closely monitoring the situation along the inter-state border.
Heavy Police Deployment, Checkpoints Set Up
Odisha has deployed more than 16 platoons of security personnel in the region, with each platoon comprising around 30 personnel, according to reports.
Police have blocked several roads, established three checkpoints and restricted the movement of Andhra Pradesh police personnel into Kotia. Odisha police have also stopped voters from crossing the inter-state border.
The heightened security measures come amid allegations that people are being pressured to cast their votes in the Andhra Pradesh elections. Reports indicate that some voters have nevertheless reached the polling booths.
Polling Booth Shift Adds to Tension
The situation reportedly intensified after the Andhra Pradesh government shifted the polling booth at Neridivalasa to Sarika village, located on the Andhra Pradesh side of the border, on Wednesday night.
The move has further drawn attention to the long-running dispute over the Kotia region, where both states have asserted administrative claims.
Officials From Both States Face Off
Over the past two days, officials from Odisha's Koraput district and Andhra Pradesh's Parvathipuram Manyam district have reportedly confronted each other along the border while staking claims over their respective jurisdictions.
Meanwhile, the Koraput District Lawyers Association has protested against the developments, adding to pressure on the Odisha administration to safeguard the state's interests and prevent any escalation.
With polling underway and the border dispute unresolved, security personnel remain on alert to maintain order and prevent tensions from escalating.