The Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Wednesday, 26 August launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Odisha government over the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026, alleging that the ruling party — which rose to power championing Odia Asmita — is now facilitating the plunder of the state's mineral wealth.

Key Allegations by BJD

At a press conference in Bhubaneswar, former Minister and BJD Vice President Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak accused the so-called 'double-engine government' of acting as an agent of mine owners rather than protecting the interests of Odisha's people. Nayak alleged that through the MMDR Amendment Act, the Centre has effectively wrested control of the state's mines, resulting in an estimated annual revenue loss of ₹12,000 crore and a potential forfeiture of over ₹1 lakh crore in outstanding mining taxes.

'The Double Engine Government has cast its greedy eye on the mineral resources of mineral-rich Odisha,' Nayak said, adding that BJP MPs and the state government failed to oppose the legislation, prioritising party interests over the welfare of Odisha's citizens.

BJD's Track Record Cited

Nayak pointed to the previous BJD government's record on mining tax recovery as a benchmark. Between 2021 and 2023, the BJD administration issued notices to mine owners for outstanding dues amounting to ₹22,000 crore and successfully recovered ₹16,000 crore. He contrasted this with the current BJP government's approach, which he described as passive compliance with Central directives.

Nayak also cited the example of neighbouring Jharkhand, whose government has reportedly recovered ₹42,000 crore in outstanding mining taxes. 'Why does the BJP Government have so much affection for mine owners?' he asked, warning that if the 'double-engine government' does not repeal what he called a 'black law', the BJD's agitation against it will continue.

Demand for Supreme Court Challenge

Nayak urged the Odisha government to immediately initiate legal proceedings against the MMDR Amendment Act, 2026 and challenge its provisions before the Supreme Court. He argued that the state has both a legal and moral obligation to protect its mineral revenue.

BJD Vows to Intensify Struggle

BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty, also present at the press conference, said the double-engine government has become 'an enemy of Odisha.' He warned that the party's agitation against what it views as a pro-mine-owner policy framework would intensify in the coming days. This comes amid broader national debate over the Centre's amendments to mining legislation and their fiscal impact on mineral-rich states.

The BJP government in Odisha is yet to formally respond to the specific revenue-loss figures cited by the BJD. The standoff signals a deepening political fault line over mineral governance in one of India's most resource-rich states.