Odisha Traders Rally Against New UPI Charges: What You Need to Know

In a bold stand against the proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions, traders in Odisha's Ganjam district observed 'No UPI Day.' The Ganjam Chamber of Commerce organized a rally in Brahmapur, demanding the government roll back the decision that they believe threatens their livelihoods. Protesters voiced their concerns about the impact of MDR on small businesses, calling for transparency from the Union government regarding the beneficiaries of this policy. As a result, many vendors across the state have stopped accepting UPI payments, insisting on cash transactions instead. This protest highlights the ongoing tension between digital payment initiatives and the realities faced by small traders.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 2, 2026, 22:19 IST

Protest Against Merchant Discount Rate in Odisha

Brahmapur: In a significant move, numerous merchants in the Ganjam district of Odisha marked 'No UPI Day' on Friday, voicing their opposition to the proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on specific UPI transactions.

Members of the Ganjam Chamber of Commerce (GCC) organized a protest rally in Brahmapur, brandishing placards and chanting slogans against the introduction of MDR on certain UPI payments.

Their chants included messages like 'Protect small businesses, support physical markets, and safeguard traders' profits—reject MDR on UPI.' The small business owners are calling for a complete reversal of this decision.

One trader expressed frustration, stating, 'Initially, the central government championed Digital India and a digital economy. Now, they are imposing MDR on UPI transactions. We have been utilizing UPI for years, and this abrupt decision will undoubtedly disrupt our operations.'

Rabindra Swamy, a leader from GCC, urged the Union government to release a white paper detailing who stands to gain from the MDR implementation. 'We will persist with our protests until this decision is fully rescinded,' he asserted.

In addition to Ganjam, numerous small traders and street vendors throughout the state have ceased accepting UPI payments, opting instead to request cash from their customers.