BJD Threatens Economic Blockade Over MMDR Act Changes; BJP Counters

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has warned of an economic blockade in Odisha to protest amendments to the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation (MMDR) Act. The party claims the state has lost approximately Rs 1.20 lakh crore in pending dues between 2005 and 2026 due to these changes.

BJD argues that Odisha's mineral wealth and mining sector previously attracted investors to the state. The party contends that the proposed amendments threaten the state's economic interests and mineral-dependent revenue.

The BJP has countered the BJD's position, dismissing the threat of blockade. The dispute centers on how mining regulations in Odisha should be structured and their impact on the state's economy.