BJD Holds Protest MMDR Amendment Act

 

MMDR Amendment Act Row Intensifies in Odisha; BJD Holds Protest in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, September 28, 2026: Political activity intensified in Odisha on Monday as Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik led a demonstration in Bhubaneswar against the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026.

Addressing the gathering outside the Odisha Assembly, Patnaik called for withdrawal of the amended legislation and said the BJD would continue its agitation over the issue. He argued that the amendment affects Odisha’s rights concerning its mineral resources and could have financial implications for the state.

The amendment was passed by Parliament in August. According to reports, it places restrictions on states’ powers to levy taxes on mineral rights and mineral-bearing lands and gives the Centre a greater role in the regulation and development of minerals.

The BJD has questioned the position taken by Odisha’s BJP MPs and the state government on the legislation. Meanwhile, BJP leaders have defended the amendment, citing the need for regulation and better management of mineral resources and disputing the opposition’s claims about its financial impact on Odisha.

The issue is expected to remain a significant point of political debate in Odisha, with the BJD indicating that its statewide agitation will continue.