Officials from Andhra Pradesh have alleged that their census teams are being obstructed by Odisha authorities while attempting to collect Census-2027 data in the disputed Kotia villages along the Andhra Pradesh–Odisha border.The Kotia cluster comprises around 28 revenue villages, an area long marked by overlapping territorial claims between the two states.

According to reports, Andhra Pradesh staff were reportedly prevented from gathering data in villages predominantly influenced by Odisha administration, although these areas are claimed to fall under Andhra Pradesh jurisdiction.In contrast, they were able to operate in Telugu-speaking pockets within the same cluster.

The situation has further escalated with allegations that Odisha police have registered cases against local residents who assisted Andhra Pradesh census workers.

Additionally, Andhra Pradesh officials have reportedly faced challenges in ensuring security for their personnel, as they lack a police station within Kotia limits, while Odisha has established administrative and policing infrastructure in the region.There are also claims that developmental assets, including solar panels installed by Andhra Pradesh, were recently removed.

The issue has triggered political concern, with Andhra Pradesh Tribal Welfare Minister Gummadi Sandhya Rani urging the Chief Minister to intervene and safeguard residents and officials engaged in welfare and census activities.Leaders have called for a permanent resolution of the border dispute, warning that continued friction may strain relations between the two states.

The matter highlights the long-standing territorial ambiguity and administrative overlap in Kotia, which continues to affect governance, development, and census operations.