In response to the intensifying conflict between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed all states and Union Territories to invoke emergency powers under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, to ensure public safety and the smooth functioning of essential services, ANI reported.
The advisory comes in the wake of Pakistan’s recent missile and drone strikes targeting several Indian cities near the western border. In a letter sent on Friday, the MHA emphasized the states’ authority and responsibility to implement all necessary measures for the protection of citizens and infrastructure during emergencies.
Quoting Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, a senior MHA official said the provision allows state governments to act swiftly during crises to safeguard life and property and ensure continuity of essential services like electricity, water supply, and transport.
These emergency powers grant state and Union Territory governments the legal authority to bypass regular administrative procedures and take immediate actions during a national crisis. It includes the ability to urgently procure vital supplies, such as medical equipment, food, and fuel, which are essential for the survival and protection of the population. Authorities are permitted to divert or mobilize existing funds without requiring prior approvals, enabling faster response during emergencies.
States and UTs can also implement civil defence measures like setting up emergency shelters, managing evacuations, or securing critical infrastructure. The rules allow local governments to maintain order and public morale by ensuring uninterrupted services, enforcing temporary restrictions, and coordinating responses with central agencies.
Additionally, the MHA has instructed states and UTs to use these powers to procure equipment and supplies without delay. They have also been asked to bear the procurement costs using their own resources to avoid bottlenecks.
The directive is part of “Operation Sindoor,” under which heightened security measures have already been implemented at critical infrastructure points, including airports, which remain operational under tightened vigilance.
- News Deskhttps://thekashmiriyat.co.uk/author/kashmiriyat/
- News Deskhttps://thekashmiriyat.co.uk/author/kashmiriyat/
- News Deskhttps://thekashmiriyat.co.uk/author/kashmiriyat/
- News Deskhttps://thekashmiriyat.co.uk/author/kashmiriyat/
