The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has taken proactive steps amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan by urging states and Union Territories to invoke emergency powers under the Civil Defence Rules. In a letter addressed to the chief secretaries and administrators of all regions, the MHA emphasized the importance of implementing precautionary measures efficiently and in a timely manner.
The MHA highlighted the necessity for state and UT administrations to be prepared for any emerging situations that may necessitate civil defence interventions. While the letter did not specify a particular crisis, the invocation of emergency powers is typically reserved for situations such as natural disasters, public health emergencies, or large-scale law and order concerns.
Under the Civil Defence Rules, local administrations are empowered to coordinate resources, enforce public safety protocols, and streamline emergency response mechanisms. The MHA’s advisory serves as a preventive measure to ensure readiness at the grassroots level and to enhance the overall resilience of the nation.
Officials at the state and UT levels have been instructed to take swift and appropriate actions, as well as to ensure seamless coordination among departments for the effective enforcement of the civil defence framework. By invoking emergency powers, the MHA aims to enhance preparedness and response capabilities across the country in the face of potential challenges.
