Senior BJD leader and Deputy Leader of Opposition Prasanna Acharya on Friday expressed deep concern in the Odisha Assembly over alleged illegal incursion by the Chhattisgarh government into Jharsuguda district’s Kanaktora area, claiming it poses a serious threat to the state’s borders and territorial integrity.
Speaking during Zero Hour, Acharya highlighted that the Chhattisgarh authorities have reportedly taken control of a 3-kilometre road in Kanaktora village, asserting dominance over it. He alleged that Chhattisgarh is planning to construct a 4-lane highway on this stretch, while local residents are strongly opposing the move. Reports indicate that Chhattisgarh officials have been inspecting vehicles, including those carrying paddy, on the road, further escalating tensions.
Acharya traced the historical context, noting that Odisha was formed as a separate province in 1936 after prolonged struggles, but suffered neglect during the 1956 state reorganisation, resulting in the loss of areas like Kharsuan. He warned that similar conspiracies to weaken Odisha appear to be resurfacing, citing parallel issues with Andhra Pradesh’s alleged incursions in border regions.
“Chhattisgarh is now encroaching on our Jharsuguda district, specifically Kanaktora, where they have occupied a 3 km road. They are displaying authority, planning road construction, and even checking vehicles. Local people are protesting vigorously, yet the district administration remains silent,” Acharya said.
He pointed out that media reports have covered the issue extensively, and accused the local administration of inaction. The BJD leader urged the Odisha government to act swiftly to halt the unauthorised entry and construction. He specifically appealed to the Deputy Chief Minister to intervene immediately and requested the Speaker to direct the district administration accordingly.
“This is a warning to the government. Odisha’s borders and sovereignty must be protected at all costs,” Acharya emphasised, calling for urgent steps to safeguard the state’s land from such border violations.
The incident adds to ongoing inter-state border frictions involving Odisha, including long-standing disputes with Andhra Pradesh over villages in Kotia and water-sharing issues with Chhattisgarh related to the Mahanadi River. Locals in the affected area have reportedly resisted the developments, fearing loss of access and territorial rights.
Odisha government officials have not yet issued an official response to the allegations raised in the Assembly. The matter is likely to draw further attention as political parties press for a resolution through diplomatic or legal channels.
