In letter to Patnaik, CM Majhi says ‘constructive suggestions’ on Kotia welcome, not politicisation

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Tuesday sought “constructive suggestions” from Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik to resolve the long-pending inter-state boundary dispute over the Kotia group of villages, while criticising the veteran leader for approaching the issue from a “political standpoint”.In a letter responding to Patnaik’s communication, Majhi said the Kotia group of villages has been an integral part of Odisha since the state’s formation in 1936.“The state government remains firmly committed to safeguarding the territorial integrity and legitimate interests of Odisha,” he said.However, Majhi said Patnaik’s October 19 letter appeared to approach the sensitive issue from a “political standpoint” rather than offer constructive, legally tenable solutions.“In view of the sensitivity of this long-standing inter-state matter, all concerned must act with restraint, responsibility and respect for the judicial process,” he said.“I would appreciate receiving your constructive suggestions, if any, for resolution of this long-pending issue, for consideration of the government,” he added.The chief minister asserted that his government had consistently upheld Odisha’s territorial interests through lawful and constitutional means.The government has also prioritised the development of Kotia and adjoining areas to promote inclusive growth, improve public services and enhance the well-being of residents, he said.Majhi informed Patnaik that a committee headed by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, comprising senior officials, had been formed to oversee integrated development of the Kotia Gram Panchayat areas.Pujari and other ministers and senior officials had also been visiting the region to assess developmental needs and coordinate efforts for its overall development, he said.Patnaik, the BJD president, had expressed concern over Andhra Pradesh announcing elections in Kotia, which he described as an inseparable part of Odisha.“During my tenure as Chief Minister, we fought to protect the geographical integrity of our state. BJP leaders have repeatedly stated in the past that Kotia is a part of Odisha, and they have even given slogans like ‘Andhra Go Back’,” Patnaik had said in the letter.He also recalled that the BJP had promised in its 2024 election manifesto to find a permanent solution to the Kotia issue, protect Odisha’s geographical integrity and restore Odia pride.He also pointed out that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which governs Andhra Pradesh, is a key ally of the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre.