High Turnout in Disputed Villages on Maharashtra- Telangana Border

Chandrapur: The disputed '12 and half' villages along the Maharashtra-Telangana border, part of Jiwati taluka, recorded a voter turnout of 64.49% by 5 pm in the assembly elections on Nov 20. This marks the third election for these villages in six months for these villages, following earlier rounds of Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Telangana. The region, comprising 14 villages, remains a bone of contention between the two states despite being under Maharashtra's jurisdiction. While Kotha (Bu.) is now deserted following the relocation of the village, Maharajguda is divided half between Maharashtra and Telangana, leaving '12 and half' villages under dispute. Telangana continues to assert its claim, adding to the complexities of governance. Villages such as Antapur, Padmavati, Indiranagar, and Maharajguda—partially located in Telangana—highlight the cross-border conflict.These villages have a total of 5,293 voters, including 2,781 men and 2,512 women, is listed in both states' electoral rolls. During Maharashtra's ongoing polls, candidates from both states made extensive efforts to engage with voters, reflecting a heightened electoral rivalry. Polling day saw enthusiastic participation, with voters queuing early at polling stations. The Paramdoli booth recorded a particularly large turnout. Electoral authorities credited awareness campaigns and outreach efforts for the high voter enthusiasm. Earlier this year, these villages participated in Lok Sabha elections for Chandrapur on April 19 and Asifabad on May 13. With a 23-day gap between polls, voters from these disputed villages voted during both the polling phases of election. This is the third time in six months when these voters have exercised their franchise of vote.
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