---
title: "Kerala to Oppose Centre's Mining Bill, Citing Federal Power Encroachment"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/kerala-opposes-centre-mining-bill-federalism-concerns-s1jje
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: Politics
published: 2026-08-13T09:00:28.296Z
modified: 2026-08-13T12:00:06.560Z
language: en-IN
---

# Kerala to Oppose Centre's Mining Bill, Citing Federal Power Encroachment

Kerala's Chief Minister announced strong political and legal opposition to a new Central government bill concerning mining, arguing it infringes on state constitutional powers over land and the federal structure. The state plans to formally protest and explore legal avenues if the bill becomes law.

## Key takeaways

- Kerala's Chief Minister announced significant opposition to a new mining amendment bill passed by the Lok Sabha.
- The state argues the bill infringes upon constitutional powers related to land, a subject under the State List, and undermines federalism.
- Kerala plans formal protests and may pursue legal action against the central legislation.

The Kerala government has declared its intention to strongly oppose the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, passed by the Lok Sabha. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan stated that the state will mount political and potentially legal challenges against the legislation.

According to Mr. Satheesan, the bill represents a significant encroachment on the constitutional authority of states regarding land, which is a subject under Entry 18 of the State List in the Indian Constitution. He emphasized the constitutional division of powers between the Union and State governments, asserting that land falls within the exclusive legislative jurisdiction of the states.

The Chief Minister alleged that the Centre is attempting to broaden its authority by redefining "mineral-bearing land" without excluding sensitive areas like coastal regions and forests. The state government intends to formally communicate its objections to the Central government and will consider legal remedies should the bill be enacted.

## Key Facts

- Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan announced strong opposition to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.
- The Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha a day prior to the announcement.
- Mr. Satheesan stated the legislation encroaches on state constitutional powers over land (Entry 18 of the State List) and threatens India's federal structure.
- Kerala plans to formally convey its protest to the Centre and may pursue legal remedies.

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Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/kerala-opposes-centre-mining-bill-federalism-concerns-s1jje
Reported from: Multiple Sources