The Biju Janata Dal today launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led state and central governments, alleging that the party which rose to power in Odisha on the slogan of “Odia Asmita” is now systematically stripping the state of its mineral rights and revenue.
At a press conference held at Sankha Bhawan, former minister and BJD vice-president Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak and party spokesperson Dr. Lenin Mohanty accused the “Double Engine” government of acting as an agent of mine owners. They claimed the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act has transferred control of Odisha’s mines to the Centre, resulting in an estimated annual revenue loss of Rs 12,000 crore and the forfeiture of more than Rs 1 lakh crore in outstanding taxes.
Nayak pointed out that all 20 BJP Lok Sabha MPs and five Rajya Sabha MPs from Odisha supported the legislation despite knowing its financial impact on the state. “The state government did not raise its voice. Former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik fought legal battles to protect Odisha’s rights. This government lacks that courage,” he said.
He contrasted the current approach with the previous BJD regime, which between 2021 and 2023 issued notices for Rs 22,000 crore in outstanding mining dues and recovered Rs 16,000 crore. Neighbouring Jharkhand, he noted, has recovered Rs 42,000 crore. “Why does the BJP government have so much affection for mine owners?” Nayak asked, warning that the party’s struggle against the “black law” would continue if it is not repealed.
Dr. Lenin Mohanty echoed the criticism, stating that the BJP government remains silent on issues that hurt Odisha while quick to claim credit for positive developments. He recalled the July 2024 Supreme Court nine-judge Constitution Bench ruling that affirmed states’ rights over mines and mineral-bearing lands and their authority to levy and collect taxes. Despite this, the Centre pushed the amendment through Parliament without adequate consultation, he alleged.
“Revenue from the mining sector is crucial for Odisha’s development. The Double Engine government is attempting to appropriate the state’s legitimate share and has become an enemy of Odisha,” Mohanty said. He added that the BJD’s opposition to policies that prioritise mine owners over the people of Odisha would intensify in the coming days.
