The issue has sparked fresh debate over development priorities and environmental safeguards across the country

New Delhi

Congress criticised a new clearance rule, warning it weakens safeguards and harms accountable environmental governance nationwide.

The Congress on Thursday attacked the Union government over a policy change affecting non-coal mining projects. The party said the decision removes a key safeguard linked to environmental responsibility. Under the revised rule, developers can now seek environmental clearance without first proving land acquisition.

Earlier, non-coal mining firms were required to complete land acquisition as per law before applying. Congress general secretary and former environment minister Jairam Ramesh criticised the move sharply. He said meaningful environmental impact assessment is difficult without knowing the full area to be mined. Ramesh called the decision another blow by the Modi regime to responsible governance.

The environment ministry changed the rule through a memorandum issued on December 18, 2025. The earlier norm was reconsidered after requests argued landowner consent should not be mandatory initially. Officials said linking land acquisition status to clearance caused practical difficulties for some projects.

The matter was examined by the non-coal mining Expert Appraisal Committee. The committee felt allowing clearance before land purchase appeared reasonable in certain cases. It noted that mining often begins after clearance while land acquisition continues in phases.

The ministry cleared the change after reviewing expert inputs and earlier rules, noting flexibility may apply elsewhere. Congress warned it weakens scrutiny and transparency, stressing land clarity is vital to assess social and ecological impact. The party urged restoring earlier norms. Opposition leaders said reforms must strengthen safeguards, not dilute them, and sought wider consultation.