Malkangiri: After the border dispute between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh over the ownership of Kotia panchayat under Pottangi block in Koraput district, the latter has reportedly set its eyes on the border villages of Malkangiri district.
According to reports, Andhra government has sent a team of doctors to provide healthcare services to the residents of Chitrakonda.
Besides, many patients from the locality have been shifted in ambulances to the hospitals in Andhra for free treatment.
Some local residents blamed Odisha government’s apathy to their problems as the reason for the interference of the neighbouring state.
“No doctor from Malkangiri visits our village even when people are ill. On the other hand, doctors from Andhra Pradesh are providing us with free treatment. They are also making arrangements for the transportation of patients to the primary health centres in Andhra Pradesh. We have no other option but to entirely depend on the neighbouring state to address our health issues,” said a local resident.
He also alleged that taking advantage of the Odisha government’s negligence, the Andhra government is providing good healthcare facilities and undertaking several developmental works in the area.
“We are not getting any help from the Odisha government. Health camps are being organised frequently in our village by the neighbouring state,” said another local.
However, comments from the district administration could not be obtained.
PNN