Don’t allow MMDR Act to be implemented in Odisha, Naveen Patnaik calls for united fight
· India · The Hindu, Hindustan Times
Biju Janata Dal President and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik appealed to political parties and citizens on Monday (September 28, 2026) to prevent the implementation of the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Amendment Act 2026 in Odisha. Leading a demonstration in front of the Odisha Legislative Assembly in Bhubaneswar, Patnaik criticized the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party at the Centre and in the State over the financial implications of the legislation. He argued that the amendment was passed in Parliament without discussion and accused local leaders and the State Government of remaining silent out of fear. Patnaik also stated that he had previously written to the Chief Minister requesting a special session of the Assembly and a formal resolution opposing the Act, but received no response. Meanwhile, BJD cadres called for halting mineral transportation from mines until the amendment is rolled back.
Why it matters
The dispute centers on state control over natural resources and potential revenue losses amounting to thousands of crores of rupees for Odisha. The political standoff pits the opposition BJD directly against both the State and Central Governments over mining rights and economic autonomy.
Read the original report — The Hindu
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