Chief minister VD Satheesan said on Thursday that Kerala strongly opposes the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, passed by Parliament, as it effectively transfers the states’ rights and authority over land to the jurisdiction of the Union government.
The legislation was passed by both Houses of Parliament amid criticism by the Opposition that it seeks to restrict the powers of States to impose taxes on mineral rights and mineral-rich lands. The Union government has stated that the amendment seeks to ensure uniform mineral rates across the country.
The CM alleged that the legislation encroaches upon the powers of States pertaining to minerals and mineral-rich lands. “In the name of the bill, there is a move to transfer the authority and rights over land — which falls under item 18 of the State List — to the jurisdiction of the Union government. Till date, the right to grant mining leases and to determine non-royalty fees payable to the State rested with the State. Land completely falls under Schedule 18 of the State List of the Constitution. The rights over land completely rested with the State,” Satheesan told reporters after the cabinet meeting on Thursday.
Deep Dive
What are the main concerns raised by Kerala regarding the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026?
Why do critics argue that the MMDR Amendment Bill affects state rights?
How does the MMDR Amendment Bill redefine the treatment of mineral-bearing lands?
The amendment bill moved by the Union government is against federal principles, he added.
{{/usCountry}}The amendment bill moved by the Union government is against federal principles, he added.
{{/usCountry}}The legislation, by defining land as mineral-bearing, does not even exclude forests and coastal areas, he said.
“Kerala proposes to oppose the legislation and will convey its deepest displeasure,” he said.