Hemant Soren Opposes Centre’s Mining Law Changes, Says Jharkhand Will Suffer

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has strongly criticised the Centre over changes to the mining and minerals law, claiming that the decision could have serious financial and developmental consequences for mineral-rich states such as Jharkhand.

Speaking after a meeting of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha's extended central committee, Soren described the Centre's decision as unfortunate and alleged that several recent decisions of the Union government were affecting the interests of both states and ordinary citizens.

The Chief Minister said Jharkhand had been making progress on the development front and that the state government was implementing several welfare and development programmes. Against this backdrop, he questioned the decision to pass legislation related to mining and minerals without adequate consultation with state governments.

Soren argued that policies governing natural resources should take into account the rights and interests of the states that possess those resources. He maintained that states should have an appropriate role in decisions concerning the exploitation and distribution of their mineral wealth.

Referring to a figure of Rs 1.36 lakh crore, Soren also questioned the broader economic implications of the Centre's policies. He alleged that instead of strengthening the financial position of states, the policies were creating greater dependence on the Union government.

Mining is particularly important to Jharkhand's economy, with the sector contributing significantly to state revenues, industrial activity and employment. Soren said any changes affecting the state's control over or revenue from mineral resources could consequently have a wider impact on development programmes and livelihoods.

The Chief Minister made it clear that his government would continue to oppose what it considers decisions against Jharkhand's interests. He said the state would protect its rights over its natural resources and continue to raise the issue through democratic means.

Soren's remarks indicate that the Centre-state dispute over control, revenue sharing and the management of mineral resources could become a significant political issue in Jharkhand, where mining remains closely linked to the state's economic interests and development priorities.