Odisha Janata Congress stages economic blockade at Chandikhole over MMDR amendments
The regional party threatens many more blockades if the State’s power is not restored
By Akshya Rout
Chandihole (Odisha), Sept. 8: The Odisha Janata Congress (OJC) on Tuesday staged an economic blockade at Chandikhole in Jajpur district to protest against the recently passed Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026 (MMDR Act, 2026). The party alleged that the legislation curtails the financial powers of the state government and causes substantial revenue losses to Odisha.
Led by OJC president Mohammad Moquim, protesters blocked National Highway 16. Moquim claimed the amendment effectively transfers control over mines and mineral-bearing lands from the state to the Union government. He estimated that Odisha stands to lose approximately Rs 12,000 crore annually in mining revenue due to eroded fiscal resources, taxes, royalties, and cesses.
Moquim questioned the constitutional validity of the legislation, arguing that it contradicts a recent nine-judge Supreme Court judgment recognizing state jurisdiction over mineral resources. He claimed the fiscal powers of the state have been “hijacked” by the Centre to benefit corporate houses. Furthermore, he raised concerns over tribal communities in mineral-rich zones, warning that they risk losing traditional land rights, livelihoods, and long-term security.
Criticizing local representatives, the OJC leader condemned Odisha’s 20 BJP MPs and single Congress MP for remaining silent during the bill’s passage in Parliament. Moquim warned that the Chandikhole demonstration marks the beginning of a sustained statewide campaign, with further blockades planned unless the Centre withdraws the controversial provisions.
The MMDR amendment has sparked intense political debate across the state. The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD), led by Naveen Patnaik, has strongly opposed the amendments, echoing concerns that the major mineral-producing state will suffer heavy financial losses and a weakened fiscal position.
Conversely, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rejected the allegations, maintaining that Odisha’s financial interests remain fully protected. The BJP stated that the state will continue gathering revenue through auction premiums, mineral royalties, and applicable levies. The party argued that the amendment creates a level playing field and an enabling regulatory framework for mining and mineral-based industries.
The protest adds to the growing political confrontation over resource control and revenue-sharing in Odisha. Several prominent leaders addressed the Chandikhole gathering, including OJC vice president Pradip Pradhan, Giribala Behera, Mujibur Reheman Khan, Ranjita Rout, Nikunja Pasayat, Seva Sangathan chief Manoj Jena, media cell chief Prasant Satpathy, general secretary Sanjay Ray, Prasanna Bisoi, Suvendu Mallick, Mahila Chief Sailabala Jena, Jajpur District President Bidyadhar Mohanty, Krushak Chief Sangram Majhi, Youth chief Aryaveer Lenka, secretary Dillip Rout, and Somnath Rout.
