Naveen Patnaik urges BJP MPs to seek reversal of mining Act amendment
In a single Legislative stroke, the control over our own minerals and our mineral-bearing lands was taken away from us, says former Odisha CM in a letter addressed to BJP MPs from the State
Former Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Naveen Patnaik addressed Odisha's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs on August 29, 2026, urging them to challenge and seek a reversal of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026. Patnaik considered August 13, 2026, a black day for Odisha as the bill, passed with minimal discussion, had significant implications for the state's economy and environment.
He emphasized that Odisha contributes 44% of India's mineral wealth and the bill's provisions would lead to an estimated annual loss of over ₹12,000 crore. Patnaik argued that the amendment took away Odisha's control over its natural resources and resources, causing pollution, displacement, and environmental degradation. He called upon BJP MPs to prioritize Odisha's interests and advocate for the reversal of the act, stating that history would judge them based on their actions during this critical juncture.
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