On mines and minerals bill, Patnaik reaches across the aisle to BJP MPs

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik expressed his dismay over the passage of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) law in Parliament, describing it as a "black day" for Odisha. Patnaik, in a letter to BJP MPs, urged them to seek reversal of the amendments, stating the Bill was passed with minimal discussion and would severely impact the people of Odisha.

Odisha contributes significantly to India's mineral wealth, accounting for nearly 44%, and has been a vital contributor to various sectors for decades. The amendments to the MMDR Act, passed on August 13, are estimated to result in an annual loss of over Rs 12,000 crore, leading to significant economic hardship over time. Patnaik lamented the loss of control over their own minerals and mineral-bearing lands, which happened under the watch of the BJP MPs.

He emphasized that the law is an injustice to Odisha's children and youth, whose future is tied to the resources and opportunities of the state. Patnaik called the MPs the voice of Odisha in the highest forum of democracy and expressed concern over their vote in favor of the bill.