Odisha opposition protests MMDR mining law amendments

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has intensified protests against the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026, claiming the legislation undermines state rights over mineral resources and could cause annual revenue losses of thousands of crores for Odisha.

In the Odisha Assembly, opposition BJD and Congress legislators disrupted proceedings for five consecutive days, describing the law as “anti-Odisha” and “anti-tribal.” The disruptions led to multiple adjournments. Following a walkout, BJD members held a massive rally in Bhubaneswar led by Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik. Patnaik stated he would fight the Act to safeguard the future of the younger generation, asserting that the state's people are the rightful owners of its minerals.

The protest in Bhubaneswar caused significant urban disruption, with traffic gridlock across major routes and the detention of over 100 protesters by police. While the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) expressed readiness to discuss the issue, they accused the opposition of being unwilling to engage in constructive debate.