MHA Activates Civil Defence Protocols, Directs States To Use Local Funds For Emergency Response

MHA has sought augmentation of civil defence measures in all states and union territories under Civil Defence Act and Rules 1968.

MHA has sought the invocation of emergency powers under civil defence rules for emergency procurement.

Source : PTI

The Ministry of Home Affairs has written to the Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories seeking the invocation of emergency powers under civil defence rules for emergency procurement.

In the event of an enemy attack or a war-like situation, the state government has special powers under Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, which allow the state to take swift action to protect people, safeguard property, and ensure that essential services like electricity, water, and transport continue to function.

Local bodies, like municipalities, are required to cover the costs of these emergency measures from their own funds. More importantly, these actions take priority over all other routine responsibilities of local authorities.

Section 11 of the Civil Defence Act, 1968 empowers the state governments to take measures, which are deemed necessary for the protection of people and property from injury or damage, or for ensuring the maintenance of the vital services, in the case of a 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," the MHA letter noted.

In simple words, if there's a threat to national security, the state can step in and direct urgent actions and local governments must treat these as top priority, even above their day-to-day work.

"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/UT, may be granted so that efficient implementation of the necessary precautionary measures can be implemented," the letter further read.