Bhubaneswar, August 29: Odisha’s Leader of the Opposition and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik has written to all BJP MPs from Odisha, expressing strong discontent regarding their support for the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.
In his letter, Patnaik emphasized that the Parliament is the largest temple of Indian democracy. As MPs, they represent the voice of Odisha on this significant platform. He noted that the people of Odisha elected them with trust to safeguard their interests. Therefore, it is deeply concerning that they voted in favor of a law that will have detrimental long-term effects on the people of Odisha.
Patnaik pointed out that the bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on August 13 with their support, marking a dark day for Odisha. He criticized the fact that the bill was passed in less than ten minutes of discussion, despite its provisions having a substantial impact on the people of Odisha.
He stated that this is not an ordinary law. It will primarily affect Odisha, which holds nearly 44 percent of India’s mineral wealth. For decades, Odisha has contributed to India’s steel, power, mining, and infrastructure sectors through its mineral resources. This significant contribution is what has made India stronger today.
Patnaik estimated that this law could lead to an annual loss of over ₹12,000 crore, potentially escalating to millions of crores over time. However, the more significant loss is the immediate loss of control over their minerals and mineral-rich lands, which occurred under their oversight.
He described this law as an injustice to the children and youth of Odisha, whose futures are tied to the state’s resources and opportunities. It is also an injustice to those who endure the pollution, displacement, environmental degradation, and hardships associated with mining. Most importantly, it undermines the dream of a self-reliant Odisha, where people have the confidence and resources to shape their future.
Patnaik urged all MPs to listen to their conscience and consider the future of Odisha’s upcoming generations. He called for a challenge to the amendment made to the MMDR Act and demanded its withdrawal.
He concluded by stating that history remembers and honors those who raise their voices against injustices faced by their people and resources. It will not judge them based on party affiliations but on whether they stood up for Odisha when it mattered most.
“You stand at a historic crossroads, where you have the option to fight for the state and its people who sent you to the Lok Sabha with a mandate to protect their interests,” he added.
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