Q. Odisha state continues to have unresolved border disputes with Andhra Pradesh. Comment.
Ans: Yes, Odisha continues to face unresolved border disputes with Andhra Pradesh, particularly in regions like Kotia in Koraput district and Gangabada in Gajapati district. These disputes are rooted in historical ambiguities, colonial-era administrative lapses, and post-independence boundary reorganization, which have led to overlapping claims and governance challenges.
Key Aspects of the Dispute:
- Kotia Cluster Dispute:
- Involves 21 villages claimed by both states.
- Originates from unclear demarcation during the formation of Odisha in 1936 and Andhra Pradesh in 1956.
- The Supreme Court, in 2006, declined to adjudicate under Article 131, leaving the matter to Parliament, resulting in a prolonged status quo.
- Gangabada Region in Gajapati:
- Andhra Pradesh officials have conducted unauthorized surveys, offered welfare schemes, and allegedly threatened eviction of Odisha-allotted homes.
- Odisha administration has responded with field visits, development projects, and legal warnings, but tensions persist.
Implications of the Dispute:
- Dual Governance:
- Villagers often possess dual voter IDs, ration cards, and receive benefits from both states, leading to identity confusion and administrative overlap.
- Developmental Neglect:
- Both states hesitate to invest fully, fearing loss of claim, resulting in poor infrastructure, limited healthcare, and educational gaps.
- Political Tensions:
- Local elections, welfare outreach, and symbolic gestures (e.g., flag hoisting, temple construction) have escalated inter-state rivalry.
- Tribal Vulnerability:
- Tribal communities, especially the Kandi and Jatapu, are caught in the crossfire, facing coercion, displacement, and loss of cultural identity.
Conclusion:
The Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border dispute reflects a failure of cooperative federalism and highlights the need for Parliamentary intervention, joint surveys, and community-centric governance. Until resolved, these regions will remain zones of uncertainty, where development is stalled and citizenship is fragmented.