BJP National Vice President, Odisha State In-Charge, and Rajahmundry MP D. Purandeswari has emphasised that the long-standing Kotia border dispute can only be resolved if the governments of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh sit down together for formal discussions.
Attending the ‘Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy’ program held at the Biju Auditorium in Rayagada on Sunday, Purandeswari addressed party workers and local media, outlining the party’s ongoing outreach initiatives and addressing critical regional concerns.
Marking her second official visit to Odisha after assuming the role of state in-charge, Purandeswari shared that her tour began in Malkangiri and will span across 14 districts. She noted that her initial visit included key organizational meetings in Bhubaneswar with the party’s state president and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
Explaining the core objective of the ‘Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy’ campaign, she stated that the BJP is holding interactive meetings with intellectuals across the region. The campaign aims to counter opposition narratives, address allegations regarding vote theft, and present the truth about the functioning of the Election Commission directly to the public.
Responding to queries regarding the disputed Kotia region, Purandeswari highlighted that the border issue dates back to the 1960s, with the Supreme Court directing both states to maintain the status quo. She noted that Kotia is home to roughly 5,000 to 5,500 residents who currently receive welfare benefits and schemes from both state governments. Consequently, labeling the administration of either state as an “infiltrator” is incorrect.
She asserted that the true path forward lies in bilateral dialogue between the administrative heads of both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Clarifying her role, Purandeswari stated that her primary task as party in-charge is to strengthen the party’s organizational base, adding that offering administrative advice on border issues falls strictly within the domain of the respective state governments.
