BJP Demands CBI Probe Into Alleged ₹9 Lakh Crore Mining Scam in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into alleged irregularities amounting to approximately ₹9 lakh crore in Odisha’s mining sector spanning the years 2000-2014. Leader of the opposition, Jaynarayan Mishra, asserted in a press conference that the total value of these mining irregularities reaches ₹8,97,443 crore. Mishra implicated Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, suggesting that corruption in mining may have occurred with his knowledge and supervision.

Badrinarayan Patra, a senior leader of the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and MLA, rejected Mishra’s allegations, labelling them as attempts to mislead the public for political gain ahead of the upcoming elections. Patra, who hails from the mineral-rich Keonjhar district, dismissed the opposition’s claims as a habitual tactic.

Advocating for a CBI probe into the alleged scam, Mishra revealed that he has written to the President, Prime Minister, Odisha Governor, and the Chief Minister, outlining the irregularities. He asserted that he also discussed the matter with the Prime Minister, who expressed surprise at the extent of the reported irregularities.

Responding to inquiries about the timing of the allegations in relation to the forthcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections, Mishra clarified that he has been aware of the mining irregularities for an extended period. However, due to health issues and prolonged hospitalization, he could not bring them to the public’s attention earlier.

Mishra detailed that out of the 192 leased mines, 176 are situated in forest areas, with 98 operating without the necessary forest and environment clearances. He highlighted that among these, 47 mines are functioning without proper forest clearance, and approximately 55 are adversely impacting rivers, rivulets, flora, fauna, and tribal populations across the state.

The opposition leader further alleged irregularities stemming from excessive mineral exploration in around 75 iron ore and manganese mines. Mishra claimed that these mines, particularly those near elephant corridors in Sundergarh and Keonjhar districts, are negatively affecting the lives of elephants.

In addition to the CBI inquiry, the BJP leader demanded the implementation of recommendations put forth by the Shah Commission to prevent irregularities in Odisha’s mining sector.