Odisha Leader of Opposition, Naveen Patnaik, has appealed to the BJP Members of Parliament from Odisha to reconsider their support for the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.
Patnaik described the passage of the Bill in the Lok Sabha as a “black day for Odisha,” asserting that it undermines the state’s control over its mineral wealth and threatens its economic future.
The letter highlights that Odisha contributes nearly 44% of India’s mineral wealth, powering the nation’s steel, power, and infrastructure sectors. Patnaik warned that the amendment could lead to an annual loss exceeding Rs 12,000 crore, with long-term repercussions for the state’s economy and autonomy. He criticised the hasty passage of the Bill—reportedly within ten minutes of discussion—calling it “one of the most arbitrary legislations” with far-reaching adverse implications.
In his appeal, Patnaik termed the law an “injustice to the children and youth of Odisha”, citing environmental degradation, displacement, and loss of livelihood as consequences of unchecked mining. He urged the MPs to “listen to their conscience” and demand a reversal of the amendment that strips the state government of its powers under the MMDR Act.
“History will judge you not by the party you stood with, but by whether you stood up for Odisha when it mattered most,” Patnaik wrote, emphasising that the MPs have a historic responsibility to protect the interests of the people who elected them.
