The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Tuesday criticised the Odisha government for adjourning the Monsoon Session of the state Assembly sine die four days ahead of schedule, alleging that the ruling BJP avoided a discussion on the amended mining law.
The Monsoon Session, which began on September 22 and was scheduled to continue until October 3, was adjourned sine die on September 28 amid frequent disruptions. Speaker Surama Padhy said the decision was taken in view of the heavy rainfall and flood situation in the state and to enable legislators to visit their constituencies.
The BJD alleged that the early conclusion of the session prevented a detailed debate on the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026. The party said it would intensify its agitation against provisions concerning the taxation powers of states over mineral rights and mineral-bearing lands.
Addressing a press conference at the BJD state headquarters in Bhubaneswar, party MLA and former minister Arun Kumar Sahoo, former minister Tukuni Sahoo and other leaders thanked people for their support to the party's mass protest programme held on Monday.
The 2026 amendment introduces restrictions on state governments imposing taxes, cesses or other levies on mineral rights and mineral-bearing lands, subject to conditions prescribed by the Centre.
The BJD has argued that the changes could affect Odisha's fiscal interests and state powers over mineral resources. Earlier, party president and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik had also raised concerns over the legislation and sought action to protect Odisha's financial and constitutional interests.
The Centre, however, has maintained that the amended law does not take away states' rights over land and minerals and that states will continue to receive the major share of mining-sector revenue.
The dispute over the amended mining law has remained a major point of contention during the Odisha Assembly's Monsoon Session, with opposition members repeatedly protesting over the issue.
