INDIA Bloc to Storm Odisha Assembly on Sept 29 Over MMDR Act
Bhubaneswar, Aug 27: The INDIA Bloc in Odisha has announced a massive gherao of the Odisha Assembly on September 29, 2026, intensifying its opposition to the recently passed Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act‑2026 (MMDR Act‑2026).
Leaders of the alliance allege that the Act strips Odisha of its rightful control over mineral resources, handing over power to the Centre and paving the way for corporate exploitation.
They argue this undermines state autonomy, tribal rights, and local economic welfare.
The protest plan follows a series of mobilisations: district‑level meetings on August 23, awareness campaigns on August 24, and a statewide protest day on August 25.
Upcoming events include a state‑level convention in Bhubaneswar on September 8, followed by public gatherings in Kendujhar (Sept 13), Sundargarh (Sept 17), Anugul (Sept 19), and Rayagada (Sept 21).
The INDIA Bloc has appealed to unions, farmers, tribal groups, youth, and women to join the movement, aiming to transform the Assembly gherao into a broad people’s struggle demanding repeal of the Act.
The alliance insists Odisha’s mineral wealth must remain for the state’s development and public welfare, not “corporate looting” under BJP governance.
