Andhra Pradesh’s move to hold local body elections in three villages in the disputed Kotia panchayat has reignited a long-standing boundary dispute, putting the BJP government in Odisha on the defensive and giving the Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) fresh ammunition to target it over its promise to resolve the issue under the “double-engine” government.

The development has also put the BJP in a politically difficult position, with Andhra Pradesh governed by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led coalition. The TDP is a key NDA ally at the Centre.

Calling Kotia an integral part of Odisha, Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik questioned the BJP’s commitment to protecting the state’s territorial integrity and safeguarding Odia pride.

“Despite Odisha having a so-called double-engine government, it is deeply concerning that Andhra Pradesh has proceeded to announce elections in Kotia.…