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In a new directive, the MHA has asked States and Union Territories to invoke civil defence powers, citing a “current hostile attack scenario” following recent cross-border tensions
Union Home Minister Amit Shah (File Photo)
Amid heightened security concerns, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued an urgent directive to all states and Union Territories. The Centre has asked them to invoke emergency powers under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, which allows authorities to take fast decisions and make emergency purchases—especially in situations where there may be a threat of attacks or disruptions.
Here’s what this move means, and why it matters:
WHAT HAS THE CENTRE ASKED STATES TO DO?
The MHA has written to Chief Secretaries and Administrators across India asking them to activate Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968. This section allows state governments to:
- Take any urgent measures needed to protect people and property
- Ensure that essential services like power, water, hospitals, and communication continue to run smoothly in case of any emergency
- Bypass routine red tape and directly buy equipment or services needed for civil defence, without waiting for long approvals
Simply put, the Centre wants states to be ready to act fast if there’s any kind of threat—whether it’s a military attack, terror strike, or anything else that can disrupt normal life.
WHAT IS CIVIL DEFENCE?
Civil defence is about preparing for and responding to emergencies—especially large-scale ones like natural disasters, war-like situations, or major attacks. Civil defence volunteers and officials help in rescue, first aid, emergency communication, and public safety during such events.
It was more commonly discussed during war times in the past, but has regained importance in recent years due to modern threats like:
- Cross-border terror strikes
- Drone attacks
- Cyberattacks on vital infrastructure
WHY IS THIS HAPPENING NOW?
The MHA’s letter explicitly mentions the “current hostile attack scenario” as the reason for invoking these emergency powers. While it doesn’t name a specific incident, the timing is significant.
Just two days ago, India launched Operation Sindoor, a major military response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 Hindu pilgrims. The precision strikes targeted terror launchpads across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Since then, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply. Pakistan attempted to retaliate, triggering concerns of further strikes, cross-border shelling, or proxy attacks. India remains on high alert, with security agencies bolstering preparedness across states—especially those near the border.
In this high-alert environment, the government wants to make sure states and Union Territories can respond without delay—whether it’s setting up defences, rushing supplies, or protecting key infrastructure.
WHAT KIND OF EMERGENCY PURCHASES ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?
With these powers, officials can immediately buy:
- Emergency lighting and generators
- Protective equipment for first responders
- Communication devices
- Water purification units
- Rescue gear and first aid materials
- Barricades or shelters, if needed
Normally, buying such items would require lengthy tenders and clearances. But in an emergency, delays can cost lives. The MHA is making sure states are not held back by paperwork.
WHO WILL HANDLE THESE POWERS?
The Director of Civil Defence in each state or UT will be given these powers. The local authorities will also be allowed to use their funds specifically for these emergency measures, even before other regular tasks. The directive also makes it clear that these emergency measures should take priority over all other civic spending and responsibilities.
States have also been asked to send a copy of their invocation order to the Directorate General of Civil Defence for official reference.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THESE POWERS ARE INVOKED?
Once emergency powers are triggered, states and Union Territories typically follow standard civil defence protocols to prepare for any escalation. These may include:
- Rapid assessments of vulnerable areas such as border zones, public transport hubs, and essential infrastructure
- Immediate checks of available emergency supplies and equipment
- Activation of civil defence volunteers, who support local authorities with rescue, first aid, public messaging, and evacuation if needed
- Coordination with police, disaster response teams, and health departments to ensure swift deployment
- Setting up temporary control rooms or shelters in sensitive districts
These steps are meant to ensure that administrations can act within hours—not days—if the situation worsens.
BOTTOM LINE
The Centre’s message is clear: In times of heightened security concerns, quick action matters. By activating special powers under the Civil Defence Rules, India’s states can respond faster, protect vital services, and keep citizens safe—without getting stuck in red tape.
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