Tribals here vote in 2 States to avail benefits from both
Over 5,000 tribals bypassed rules, voting first in Odisha (without ink marking) and then in AP
Andhra-Odisha Border: The expectation for a referendum of choice to decide on which State they belong in May 13 general elections turned into a big disappointment as the tribals of 21 tribal villages in Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border managing to vote in both the States.
Throwing rules to the wind, majority of 5,000-odd voters in the hilly terrains known as Kotia Group of Villages somehow managed to vote in Odisha first without ink marking and later casting their franchise in Andhra Pradesh.
Sources said the tribals threatened not to vote in Odisha if ink mark is made on their fingers. Many tribals first voted in Tolaliganjspadar in Odisha and later Tiguaganjai in Andhra Pradesh near Neridivalasa in Salur Assembly segment.
Leo Jamel, sarpanch of Kotia, told Bizz Buzz that majority did justice by voting in both States as they are forced to avail best of benefits offered in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
The jurisdictional dispute between both the States continue till date since the formation of Andhra Pradesh as a linguistic State. Odisha was formed in 1936. Since then the areas are yet to be demarcated with proper surveys.
Tribals in 21 villages, who were once under the grip of Maoists live under abject poverty. They grow paddy, pulses etc. mostly rain-fed and of late they have been resorting to podu cultivation. Though the areas are believed to be containing large deposits of minerals, required surveys are yet to be done.
The tribals interestingly have ration cards, Aadhar and voters ID cards from both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. The two States are vying with each other and compete as a question of prestige to extend welfare measures. For instance Odisha offers a monthly social security pension of Rs 1,000 whereas Andhra Pradesh gives Rs 3,000. Andhra Pradesh has also become a big attraction for tribals here as it gives Arogya Sri medical coverage of Rs 25 lakh.
Former sarpanch Bishu Jamel said there seems a tacit understanding between the officials of Koraput (Odisha) and Manyam districts to ensure peaceful polling by allowing them voting in both the States. "This is against constitutional rights. Under what law citizens can be allowed in two States," asked former MP from Odisha and senior Congress leader Jayaram Pangi.
