The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories to invoke emergency powers under civil defence rules to facilitate urgent procurement.
In the event of an enemy attack or a war-like scenario, state governments have the authority under Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, to swiftly implement measures that protect civilians, secure property, and ensure the uninterrupted functioning of essential services such as electricity, water, and transportation.
According to a media report, local bodies, such as municipalities, are obligated to bear the costs of these emergency measures using their own funds. Notably, these actions are given precedence over all other routine duties of local authorities.
Section 11 of the Civil Defence Act, 1968 grants state governments the authority to implement necessary measures to protect people and property from harm or damage, as well as to ensure the continuity of essential services, in the event 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.