Odisha block administration stopped an Andhra Pradesh health camp in Koraput district’s Kotia region on Friday after officials from Parvathipuram Manyam district attempted to provide medical services in Upar Ganijeipadar village.
The mobile health team, operating under Tonam Health Centre, reached the area to deliver services.
Local sources reported that Andhra officials have repeatedly entered Kotia panchayat to extend state schemes. They distributed ration cards, issued forest land pattas, and offered education and health services to Kotia residents. These activities raised concerns in the Odisha administration about Andhra’s growing influence in disputed border villages.
Pottangi Block Development Officer Rama Krushna Nayak received information about the health camp and directed officials, along with Kotia police, to reach the spot. The team arrived quickly and stopped the Andhra programme. They also warned Andhra officials not to conduct health services inside Odisha territory in future.
Odisha officials emphasised that Kotia belongs to Koraput district and only Odisha government agencies can provide welfare services there. They stated that repeated attempts by Andhra authorities to run schemes in Kotia undermine Odisha’s jurisdiction.
The incident highlighted the ongoing administrative tussle between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh over the Kotia panchayat. Residents often face confusion as both states try to extend benefits. Odisha administration continues to monitor the situation and asserts its authority through regular interventions.
