RANCHI: Political confrontation in Jharkhand appears to be intensifying over the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) is conducting a phased protest against the law. On September 19, the party held demonstrations at a large number of block headquarters across the state. The party is now preparing to take the movement to the district and state levels.

The JMM says the amended law could affect the rights of states over mineral resources and the revenue associated with them. The party has linked the issue to Jharkhand’s economic and constitutional interests and has demanded changes to the law. The BJP, on the other hand, has opposed the claims made by the JMM and Congress regarding the law and has announced an awareness campaign across the state.

The next phase of the JMM’s movement is expected to include larger programmes at the district and state levels. The party had earlier conducted public awareness programmes and demonstrations at the block level. Following the September 19 protests, party workers reiterated their demand for withdrawal of the law and protection of the states’ rights over mineral resources.

Meanwhile, references to older protest methods such as an economic blockade have also emerged in discussions about the JMM’s strategy. However, this is currently being viewed only as a possible protest strategy or warning; there is no confirmation that any widespread economic blockade has been implemented.

Mineral resources and the revenue generated from them have long been important issues in Jharkhand politics. With the new law triggering a debate over the powers of the Centre and the states, political and industrial circles are watching how the JMM’s movement develops.