Odisha opposition protests MMDR mining law amendments

Political tension is escalating in Odisha over the recently passed Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill. Opposition parties, including the Congress and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), argue the central legislation undermines state fiscal autonomy by restricting the ability of states to levy taxes on mineral rights and mineral-bearing lands.

Congress leaders have labeled the legislation a ‘dark law’ and requested a special session of the state Assembly to discuss its implications. They claim the amendments could result in a total loss of approximately Rs 1 lakh crore for the state, with an annual financial impact of around Rs 20,000 crore, potentially threatening the livelihoods of tribal communities.

The BJD has characterized the bill as a ‘dangerous conspiracy’ against the state's economy. In response, members of the INDIA Bloc, including the Left parties, NCP, and SP, have planned public awareness campaigns and protests. Meanwhile, the ruling BJP has defended the law, with officials asserting that Odisha will not suffer revenue losses under the new regulations.