Thiruvananthapuram, Aug. 14 -- 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 th...