Political controversy over the MMDR (Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill has intensified in Odisha, with opposition parties BJD and Congress demanding a special session of the state assembly and issuing warnings of protests.
Parliamentary Affairs and Health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling responded to the demands, stating that the matter would be discussed during the monsoon session of the assembly. “Once the notification for the session is issued, discussions will take place. The government is ready to deliberate on all issues,” he said. He clarified that no special session would be convened and that the topic would be taken up in the upcoming session.
Former BJD minister Pritiranjan Gharai strongly opposed the bill at a press conference. “BJD is not in favour of the MMDR Bill. When the bill was passed, BJP MPs from Odisha remained silent. This is not for the people of Odisha but to benefit mine owners. It will allow the BJP to receive large funds,” he alleged. Gharai claimed that the 2024 Supreme Court verdict had given more rights to the state, but the bill would result in Odisha losing Rs 1 lakh crore. He challenged the BJP to a debate on the financial loss, warning that the party would not spare the government. “Mines belong to Odisha; the state will bear the pollution, yet the bill was passed for the interest of other states. Odisha’s people will not forgive this. If necessary, BJD will enforce an economic blockade,” he said, adding that Naveen Patnaik continues to fight for the state’s interests and that protests would intensify in the coming days.
Congress Legislature Party leader Rama Chandra Kadam declared that the party would continue its agitation until the Centre withdraws the MMDR Bill. “The government is afraid of calling a special session. The double-engine government is sacrificing Odisha’s interests. Why is the Chief Minister silent so far? Congress will not tolerate this,” he said. Kadam noted that under Supreme Court guidelines, states are entitled to arrears, which Jharkhand has secured, but Odisha made no effort. Accusing the BJP of speaking in two voices, he announced plans for a massive public movement, including shutting down mines, in the larger interest of the state. “This government is afraid to face the assembly and is structured to exploit Odisha. Congress will keep the agitation going until the Centre withdraws the MMDR Bill,” he asserted.
Opposition parties have branded the legislation a “Dark Act,” claiming it would strip the state of control over its mineral resources and cause annual losses of thousands of crores. While the government has expressed readiness for discussion, no clear decision has been taken on a special session. With political tensions rising, the issue is expected to intensify further in the coming days.
