Jharkhand Mukti Morcha Staged Statewide Protest Against MMDR Amendment Act

Ranchi: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) on 19th September 2026 held protests at 260 block headquarters across Jharkhand against the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026, seeking protection of the state’s rights over mineral resources and related revenues. Party ministers, MLAs and central committee members joined the demonstrations, after which memorandums addressed to the President were submitted to block development officers and circle officers.

Also Read: Today’s Headlines – Business Jharkhand

Party Raised State Rights, Pending Mining Claims

JMM central general secretary Vinod Kumar Pandey said the party’s campaign was aimed at protecting Jharkhand’s constitutional and federal rights over water, forests, land and minerals. The party has argued that the amended law could affect the financial autonomy of mineral-rich states. It also renewed its demand for settlement of pending mining related claims of around Rs 1.36 lakh crore, which it says include land compensation, Common Cause related dues and washed coal royalty.

Also Read: Minister Radha Krishna Kishore Raised Jharkhand’s Revenue Concerns at Delhi Meet

Centre Put Forward Different Revenue Position

The Union Government, however, has said the 2026 amendment does not take away the states’ rights over land and minerals. According to the Union Government, around 90% of total mining revenue and statutory payments will continue to accrue to states, including through royalty, auction premium, District Mineral Foundation (DMF) payments and the states’ share of GST. The Government has also said the amendment does not affect the powers of States to regulate and impose taxes on minor minerals.

Also Read: 200 CISF Personnel Take Over Security At Jharkhand’s Amrapali Mines

JMM Planned Wider Agitation

Pandey said the block level demonstrations marked the first phase of the party’s campaign. The next phase will see protests at district headquarters, followed by a State level agitation. The party also plans to take the issue to constitutional and legal forums and has demanded implementation of the Supreme Court’s 25th July 2024 judgment, besides settlement of pending mining claims and protection of the rights of tribal communities, indigenous residents, displaced families and people affected by mining.

Also Read: INTUC Announced Stir in Hazaribagh Against BGR Over Labour Issues

Ministers, MLAs Joined Protests

JMM leaders participated in demonstrations in different parts of the state. Minister Yogendra Prasad joined the protest at the Gomia block office, while MLA Uday Shankar Singh, alias Chunna Singh, took part in the demonstration at Sarath. MLA Sanjeev Sardar joined the programme at Potka and MLA Amit Mahato attended the protest at Bundu. In Ranchi district, demonstrations were held across all blocks, including Angada, Bero, Budhmu, Chanho, Itki, Kanke, Khalari, Lapung, Mandar, Namkum, Ormanjhi, Ratu, Nagri, Bundu, Rahe, Sonahatu and Tamar.

Also Read: JEMCL Acquired Two Coal Blocks in Pakur, Annual Output Set at 6.92 MT