Odisha Leaders Slam MMDR Amendment Bill as Anti‑Tribal and Anti‑State

The recently passed MMDR Amendment Bill has sparked sharp criticism across Odisha, with opposition leaders branding it unconstitutional and detrimental to tribal communities.

Koraput MP Saptagiri Shankar Ulaka and Rayagada MLA Kadraka Appala Swamy argued that the legislation strips states of their authority over mineral resources, directly contradicting the Supreme Court’s 2024 ruling that upheld states’ rights to levy taxes and cess on mineral production.

Ulaka warned that Odisha could lose nearly Rs 1 lakh crore in pending royalties and face annual losses of Rs 20,000–22,000 crore, weakening the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and impacting local development.

He also questioned Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s support for the Bill, accusing the Centre of encroaching on state‑listed subjects such as sand ghats and stone quarries.

The Rayagada District Congress Committee has announced statewide protests, threatening an Odisha bandh if the Bill is not withdrawn.

Swamy further alleged that the government is prioritising corporate interests while burdening poor farmers, leading to distress and suicides.

The controversy signals a brewing political storm in Odisha, with opposition parties preparing to escalate their agitation against what they call a “corporate‑driven” law.