Bhubaneswar, Sept. 23 (UDN): The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) has announced plans for a statewide bandh after Dussehra and a seven-day economic blockade to protest the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Amendment Act, 2026.
The decisions were taken at a meeting of the Congress executive committee, where the party adopted seven resolutions on issues it plans to raise through an intensified agitation. The party has also demanded the resignation of School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond.
Congress Announces Seven-Day Mining Blockade
According to OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das, the proposed economic blockade will seek to halt mining activities, mineral extraction and the transportation of minerals across Odisha for seven days.
Congress has been demanding repeal of the MMDR Amendment Act, with the party alleging that the amendments could affect Odisha’s interests and mineral-related revenue.
The party said the proposed bandh and economic blockade would form part of its wider campaign on mining-related issues in the state.
Das also alleged that the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) was responsible for irregularities related to mining in Odisha. The allegation was made as part of the Congress’s criticism of the previous state government.
Seven Resolutions Adopted
The Congress executive committee meeting was held under the slogan “Not me, but us”, with party leaders discussing measures to strengthen the organisation and intensify its campaign on issues identified by the party.
Das said the MMDR Amendment Act and the demand for Gond’s resignation were among the key issues included in the resolutions.
“The Congress has announced an Odisha bandh after Dussehra, followed by a seven-day economic blockade during which mining operations and the transportation of minerals will be suspended,” Das said.
The party is expected to announce further details regarding the proposed bandh and blockade, including the dates and the scope of the programme.
BJP Response Awaited
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had not immediately responded to the Congress’s latest announcement at the time of publication.
The proposed agitation comes amid Congress opposition to the MMDR amendments and its demand for a review of the legislation’s implications for Odisha’s mineral sector.
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