Amid the continuously evolving escalatory situation between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Friday reportedly urged all states and Union Territories (UTs) to enhance their respective civil defence measures under the Civil Defence Act and Rules of 1968, as per news agency ANI.
The need for the letter stemmed from the requirement of timely action and preparedness at the state and local levels in this challenging time of hostile attack.
On Thursday night, Pakistan launched a series of coordinated missile attacks along the India-Pakistan border targeting regions in Jammu and Kashmir, and Rajasthan. According to Indian defense officials, the attacks were largely intercepted by India's air defense systems, including the S-400 missile defense system, preventing significant damage.
What All Did The Ministry Say?
It has been reported that in a letter titled "augmentation of civil defence measures in the states/UTs", the home ministry underscored Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, that says that state governments are empowered to undertake all necessary actions for the protection of people and property.
In view of the last night's attacks by Pakistani forces in Jammu and Jaisalmer regions, it was reportedly mentioned that the provision also authorizes the use of local authority funds for such emergency measures, giving them precedence over other financial obligations.
"In the current hostile attack scenario, I would like to draw your kind attention towards Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, which inter-alia empowers he State Governments, to take such measures, which in the opinion of the state government necessary for the protection of persons and property from injury or damage, or for ensuring the due maintenance of the vital services, in the event of hostile attack. The funds of the local authority shall be applicable to the payment of the charges and expenses Incidental to such compliance, and priority shall be given to such compliance over all other duties and obligations of the local authority," reads the letter, as per a report by NDTV.
"I shall be grateful, if Section 11 of the CD Rules, 1968, can be invoked and necessary Emergency Procurement Powers to the Director Civil Defence of your state and UT, may be granted so that efficient implementation of the necessary precautionary measures can be implemented", the letter further read.
Indo-Pak Tensions
The tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbouring nations escalated from the deadly Pahalgam terror attack which killed 26 people on April 22.
India in a befitting response, launched a targeted missile attack 'Operation Sindoor' on the wee hours of May 7 which destroyed Pakistan's several terror bases. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the attack was measured and non-escalatory in nature.
Pakistan followed up with retaliatory strikes since May 7 amid the escalating conflict which has further heightened tensions between the two nations with both sides accusing each other of aggression and violating airspace.
