📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Vyacheslav Argenberg
Politics
INDA bloc rallies in Odisha against MMDR Bill, blames BJP for curbing state mining rights
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 25 Aug 2026, 10:03 PM
👁 6
The opposition INDIA bloc staged a protest in Odisha over the proposed MMDR Bill, accusing the BJP government of undermining the state's control over its mineral resources.
The INDIA bloc organised a demonstration in Odisha to voice opposition to the draft Mineral Mining Development and Regulation (MMDR) Bill. Activists gathered outside the state assembly, holding placards that highlighted concerns over the bill's impact on local mining interests.
The coalition alleged that the BJP‑led administration is seeking to dilute Odisha's constitutional rights over its mineral wealth, effectively transferring decision‑making power to the centre.
While the government maintains that the MMDR Bill aims to streamline mining operations and attract investment, opposition leaders warned that the legislation could erode the state's fiscal autonomy and marginalise local stakeholders.
INDA representatives said the protest will continue until the bill is withdrawn or amended to safeguard Odisha's mining rights.
The standoff underscores the broader political tussle between regional parties and the central government over resource governance.
The coalition alleged that the BJP‑led administration is seeking to dilute Odisha's constitutional rights over its mineral wealth, effectively transferring decision‑making power to the centre.
While the government maintains that the MMDR Bill aims to streamline mining operations and attract investment, opposition leaders warned that the legislation could erode the state's fiscal autonomy and marginalise local stakeholders.
INDA representatives said the protest will continue until the bill is withdrawn or amended to safeguard Odisha's mining rights.
The standoff underscores the broader political tussle between regional parties and the central government over resource governance.