Koraput: Amid the long-standing territorial dispute between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh over the Kotia region, several Andhra Pradesh officials allegedly entered villages under the Kotia Gram Panchayat and collected voters' information.

According to reports, officials from Andhra Pradesh conducted a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Phatusineri and Phagunsineri villages on Wednesday. The team went door-to-door collecting voter details from residents.

The latest development has reignited tensions between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh over the disputed Kotia region. Despite repeated resistance from Odisha authorities, Andhra Pradesh has allegedly continued its efforts to maintain an administrative presence in the area.

The dispute between the two states over Kotia has intensified in recent years, particularly after Odisha accelerated developmental activities in the region. Andhra Pradesh has reportedly been attempting to influence locals through various means, while occasional visits by its officials have continued to create confusion among villagers.

Recently, Odisha began census-related activities in Kotia, following which Andhra Pradesh allegedly tried to influence the locals. However, the Pottangi block administration's proactive measures prevented such attempts from succeeding.

Even after facing resistance during census-related activities, Andhra Pradesh officials continued to make discreet visits to the area. The neighbouring state has now reportedly initiated the SIR process in the villages.

Meanwhile, the Pottangi block administration is currently conducting a door-to-door verification drive as part of the voter list revision exercise.

In response to repeated reports of cross-border incursions, the Koraput district administration has decided to construct permanent check gates at three strategic locations to monitor movements and activities in the border region. The sites have already been identified, and construction work is expected to begin within the next few days.