BJD seeks President’s intervention for reversal of 2026 amendment to Mines and Minerals Act
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has protested against the 2026 amendment to the Mines and Minerals Act, claiming it will cause Odisha to lose significant tax revenue. The party has petitioned the President of India to intervene and reverse the legislative change.
Why it matters
This highlights a major fiscal conflict between state-level resource rights and federal legislative authority in India.
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) staged a massive protest demonstration demanding constitutional intervention for the reversal of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Amendment Act, 2026 here on Wednesday (September 9, 2026).
On Wednesday morning (September 9, 2026), BJD leaders marched towards the Lok Bhavan to apprise Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati of the consequences for Odisha upon the implementation of the Act. They submitted a comprehensive memorandum addressed to President Droupadi Murmu through the Governor.
“Odisha is one of the most mineral-rich states in the country and has contributed immensely to India’s industrial and economic development through its reserves of iron ore, coal, bauxite, chromite, and other minerals. The mineral resources located within the territory of Odisha constitute an important component of the State’s natural wealth and have historically been a major source of revenue for the State government,” the BJD leaders said.
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