INDIA Bloc Observes Odisha Bandh Over MMDR Act and CEC
The INDIA bloc has observed a statewide Odisha bandh demanding the withdrawal of the MMDR Amendment Act and the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.
The INDIA bloc has called for a statewide shutdown in Odisha on Thursday, bringing the state to a standstill to protest against several key issues. The coalition of ten political parties is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Amendment Act, 2026, and the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar.
Demands for Mining Rights and CEC Resignation
A primary driver behind the Odisha bandh is the restoration of mining property rights to the state. Senior Congress leader Suresh Kumar Routray emphasized that the state's mineral wealth, valued at lakhs of crores, must be returned to Odisha's control.
Routray also directed sharp criticism toward the Chief Election Commissioner, calling for his resignation and arrest. He alleged that Gyanesh Kumar has betrayed the public interest, causing a massive collapse that affects millions of voters across the state. "That is why the shutdown is taking place," Routray stated, thanking the public for their support.
Allegations of Central Conspiracy
The opposition has also targeted the Central Government's legislative moves. Jyoti Ranjan Mahapatra, All India Forward Bloc State General Secretary, characterized the MMDR Amendment Act, 2026, as a "calculated conspiracy."
According to Mahapatra, the act is designed to:
- Harm the specific interests of Odisha.
- Plunder the mineral wealth of the state.
- Transfer state resources to private companies.
Textbook Errors and Flood Relief Demands
Beyond mining and electoral concerns, the coalition has raised grievances regarding education and disaster management. The INDIA bloc is demanding the resignation of the Minister of School and Mass Education following the discovery of errors in children's textbooks.
Furthermore, the protest aims to uphold the rights of citizens in Odisha who have been severely impacted by recent floods. The shutdown was scheduled to remain in effect from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm to press these four major demands:
- Withdrawal of the MMDR Amendment Act, 2026.
- Resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.
- Resignation of the Minister of School and Mass Education.
- Protection of rights for flood-affected residents.