Senior BJD General Secretary Lekhashree Samantsinghar warned that the proposed 3,000 MW private nuclear plant in Odisha poses a serious health and safety risk. She accused the state BJP government of prioritising corporate interests over public safety.

Key Takeaways

  • A private company proposes a 3,000 MW nuclear power plant in Odisha.
  • BJD labels the project a grave threat to public health and safety.
  • The state government has amended regulations to facilitate private participation.

Senior BJD General Secretary Lekhashree Samantsinghar addressed a press conference on August 5, 2026 in Bhubaneswar, stating that the establishment of a private nuclear power plant in Odisha would jeopardise the health and safety of its citizens. She accused the BJP‑led state government of compromising public safety for corporate gains.

Historical Background

When nuclear energy is discussed, memories of Hiroshima and Nagasaki (1945), the Chernobyl disaster (1986), and the Fukushima incident (2011) instantly surface, underscoring the lingering trauma and unresolved compensation for victims.

In December 2025, the central government passed legislation allowing private entities to enter the nuclear sector. Following that, several private firms turned their attention to Odisha, prompting BJD to raise alarms about unchecked private involvement.

India currently operates 8.8 GW of nuclear capacity under government ownership. Samantsinghar warned that expanding this to 100 GW by handing control to private firms would be “extremely dangerous” and contrary to national security norms.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the controversy could set a precedent for how private entities engage with strategic sectors in India, potentially influencing future policy decisions on energy security and environmental safety.

"Handing nuclear power to private hands without stringent oversight can create unprecedented risks," said a national security expert.
Did You Know?: India currently operates eight nuclear reactors with a total capacity of about 8.8 GW.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the proposed capacity of the nuclear plant?
A: 3,000 MW.

Q2: How has BJD responded to the proposal?
A: BJD has vowed to launch a mass agitation to protect the people of Odisha.