Amid an ongoing border dispute and heightened security measures, approximately 850 votes were cast by residents of four villages in the disputed Kotia region during the Andhra Pradesh panchayat elections.
Voters from Neredivalasa, Tadivalasa, and Sembiguda participated in the polls, utilising the polling station established across the border in Sarika. Official reports indicate that the voter turnout in the area touched 31.58 per cent, marking a notable increase compared to the 23.04 per cent turnout recorded during the previous local elections in 2021.
The polling process unfolded under the watchful eye of local administrations, as Odisha police and district authorities maintained strict surveillance across the 21 border villages to manage the sensitive situation and monitor external electoral incursions.
