Odisha government rejects special session demand over mining bill

The Odisha government has rejected demands from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Indian National Congress to convene a special assembly session to discuss the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill. Opposition leaders Naveen Patnaik and Ram Chandra Kadam characterized the recently passed parliamentary legislation as ‘anti-Odisha’ and harmful to the state’s interests.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling stated that a special session is unnecessary, noting that the matter can be addressed during the upcoming monsoon session. The Congress party has criticized the decision, alleging that the state could lose approximately Rs 10,000 crore in annual revenue and face significant arrears due to the new bill. Opposition members have also accused the central government of attempting to gain control over Odisha’s natural resources, including minerals, water, and forests.