Mahanadi Water Dispute: BJD Demands Transparency in Delhi Talks

A crucial meeting chaired by the Union Home Minister in Delhi has brought Odisha and Chhattisgarh leaders together to address the long‑standing Mahanadi water dispute.

However, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has raised sharp objections, insisting that all decisions and any MoU emerging from the talks must be made public.

Despite BJP’s governance at the Centre and in both states since 2024, the dispute remains unresolved.

The BJD has dismissed the Delhi meeting as “eyewash” ahead of Odisha’s local elections, accusing the ruling party of political posturing.

Key grievances include Odisha’s concerns over reduced non‑monsoon water flow, alleged illegal barrages in Chhattisgarh, sudden gate openings causing floods, and diversion of water to industries.

The BJD stressed that transparency is non‑negotiable, as millions of farmers and citizens depend on the Mahanadi’s lifeline.