Kotia tension escalates after Odisha nameplate vandalised, Andhra role alleged

A nameplate recently installed by the Odisha administration in the Kotia region of Koraput district was allegedly vandalised on Monday night, with local residents alleging the involvement of agents from Andhra Pradesh, who have reportedly been active in the area for years. The incident occurred at Harmandanghi Square, located near the Kotia police station, raising concerns over security lapses as the vandalism reportedly went undetected by the police.

Odia Nameplates Targeted Across Kotia Panchayat

According to reports, the Patangi Block administration began installing Odia nameplates across several villages in Kotia panchayat earlier in December. Similar boards were placed in Doliamba, Phagunasineri, Phatusineri and Harmandangi under the Phatusineri panchayat.

However, locals claimed that groups from Andhra Pradesh held meetings in these villages and subsequently damaged all the newly installed nameplates. The nameplate at Harmandanghi, installed on December 3, was found destroyed late Monday night. Despite its proximity to the police station, no immediate action or investigation was reported. Efforts to obtain an official response from the local administration were unsuccessful.

Attempts to Influence Odisha Villagers Alleged

Residents further alleged that agents from Andhra Pradesh have been visiting homes in the Kotia region, persuading villagers to adopt welfare schemes offered by the Andhra Pradesh Government. These efforts reportedly include promoting Andhra’s health schemes and facilitating the installation of mobile towers by Andhra authorities.

Following increased vigilance by the Odisha administration, several of these attempts were reportedly curtailed. In retaliation, the agents allegedly began organising community gatherings, holding frequent meetings and even conducting rallies across the area. During these meetings, they were said to have encouraged villagers to surrender ration cards issued by the Odisha Government and discouraged children from attending Odia-medium schools.

The incident has once again highlighted the longstanding dispute and sensitivities surrounding administrative control in the Kotia region. Authorities are yet to announce any probe into the latest act of vandalism.