Mahanadi Water Dispute: BJD Slams Odisha Govt Over Inaction

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has sharply criticised the BJP-led Odisha government for failing to take decisive steps in the ongoing Mahanadi river water dispute with Chhattisgarh.

According to BJD leaders, Chhattisgarh has constructed several upstream check dams and barrages over the past 19 months, significantly reducing Odisha’s share of water.

They alleged that the Odisha government remains indecisive, caught between pursuing out-of-court negotiations and relying on the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal, but has failed to act on either front.

The tribunal itself reprimanded the Odisha government for not seeking an extension of its term in time. Meanwhile, planned consultations with political parties and stakeholders, as well as a ministerial delegation’s visit to Chhattisgarh, were cancelled without explanation.

The BJD recalled that under Naveen Patnaik’s leadership, Odisha had sought a negotiated settlement with central mediation.

However, Chhattisgarh’s non-cooperation and the Centre’s silence forced Odisha to approach the Supreme Court, which led to the creation of the tribunal.

The opposition party has now demanded that the Odisha government clarify its position and take urgent steps to safeguard the state’s rights over the Mahanadi water.