Archive · 6 Sep 2026
Odisha Janata Congress Plans Protest Against MMDR Act
The Odisha Janata Congress plans a large protest in Chandikhole on September 8.
It is protesting a new law called the MMDR Act, 2026.
The party says the law could reduce Odisha’s ability to earn money from its minerals.
It also says Odisha may have difficulty collecting more than Rs 1 lakh crore in old dues.
The party believes the law limits the state’s power to impose taxes, cess and royalties.
It referred to a 2024 Supreme Court judgment about states’ mineral-related powers.
The party also criticized the BJP-led government and Odisha’s BJP MPs.
These claims were made by the OJC at a press conference.
The Odisha Janata Congress announced a protest and economic blockade at Chandikhole on September 8.
The party says the MMDR Act, 2026, will reduce Odisha’s financial powers and mineral revenues.
It alleges Section 9D could affect recovery of past dues exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore.
The OJC says the law restricts taxation, cess and royalty powers over mineral resources.
The party criticized the BJP-led state government and Odisha’s 20 BJP MPs for remaining silent.
- Who
- The Odisha Janata Congress, led for the protest by party president Mohammad Moquim.
- What
- A protest meeting and an “economic blockade” against the MMDR Act, 2026.
- When
- September 8; the article does not specify the year for the protest date.
- Where
- Chandikhole in Jajpur district, Odisha.
- Why
- The OJC alleges that the law will reduce Odisha’s financial powers, limit mineral-related taxation and affect recovery of past dues.
- Organiser
- Odisha Janata Congress
- Protest location
- Chandikhole, Jajpur district
- Protest date
- September 8
- Protest format
- Protest meeting and “economic blockade”
- Disputed legislation
- MMDR Act, 2026
- Alleged past dues
- More than Rs 1 lakh crore
- Relevant provision
- Section 9D