Due to rising border tensions, the Central Government has allowed all states and union territories to use emergency powers under the Civil Defence Rules of 1968. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued this directive on Friday, asking local governments to remain prepared for any external threat, especially in light of increased aggression from Pakistan.
This comes after Pakistan tried to respond to India’s precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, carried out recently in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Since then, the situation along India’s western borders has become more serious, prompting India to activate emergency civil protection measures.
What Are Civil Defence Rules, 1968?
The Civil Defence Rules were created under the Civil Defence Act of 1968. These rules help the government protect civilians and essential public infrastructure in case of a war, invasion, or any enemy attack, whether by air, land, sea, or other methods.
These rules allow the Centre and the states to take fast and preventive actions before any attack, respond quickly during the event, and manage the situation afterwards.
Why Were Emergency Powers Activated?
According to government officials, there has been an increase in cross-border activities. On the night of May 8, Pakistan reportedly launched drones and missiles targeting Indian border regions like Srinagar, Pathankot, Amritsar, and parts of Jammu and Punjab. However, most threats were neutralized by India’s counter-UAS grid and S-400 Sudarshan Chakra air defence system.
Apart from this, there have been heavy ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC). Reports confirm that Pakistani forces used mortars and artillery in several districts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Kupwara, Uri, Baramulla, Poonch, Mendhar, and Rajouri. These attacks led to the death of at least 16 civilians, including women and children.
In response, the Centre empowered states and UTs to implement Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, which allows emergency procurement of materials and quick deployment of civil defence services. This will help state administrations to act fast without waiting for central approvals during emergencies.
What Can States Do Under These Rules?
Here are some of the key powers that states and UTs can now use:
1. Control of Lighting and Movement
To protect from enemy air strikes, local authorities can:
- Turn off or dim street lights and household lights.
- Ask people to cover vehicle lights.
- Restrict traffic movement on risky routes.
- Control light signs that can be noticed from the air.
- Ban smoke, loud noises, or any activity that may alert enemy forces.
2. Fire Safety Measures
- Property owners may be ordered to install fire safety devices and remove flammable items.
- Police and civil defence officials can inspect any building.
- If the owner fails to take steps, authorities can act on their behalf and later recover the costs.
- During a fire, officers can enter buildings, remove risky structures, and take action to prevent a bigger disaster.
3. Protection from Enemy Observation
- Authorities may direct building owners to paint rooftops or add covers to make structures less visible to enemy aircraft.
- If the owner fails to comply, the government can carry out the task and charge the cost.
4. Storage of Hazardous Materials
To avoid major disasters from chemicals and explosives:
- The government can restrict or ban the storage of dangerous substances.
- It can also fix storage limits and safety requirements.
- Officials will carry out regular inspections to check for violations.
5. Building Air-Raid Shelters
- States can ask owners of old or weak buildings to create air-raid shelters for safety.
- Instructions can include shelter designs, materials to be used, and the timeline for completion.
- Officers can inspect the construction to ensure safety standards are met.
6. Control of Fire and Emergency Services
- In case of large fires or explosions, the state can take control of fire departments and water supply—whether public or private.
- During such events, all fire personnel and machinery must follow government orders.
7. Mock Drills and Emergency Exercises
- The government can conduct mock drills anywhere to prepare civilians and authorities.
- Civil defence workers can enter private land during these drills, use water tanks, set up temporary structures, or even block roads.
- If any property is damaged during practice, compensation must be given.
Why This Move Matters Now
With Operation Sindoor triggering a reaction from Pakistan, the border situation has become highly sensitive. By invoking the Civil Defence Rules, the government ensures all possible precautions are in place. Local administrations now have full authority to act fast and handle emergencies without waiting for central approval, which is crucial during attacks or war-like situations.
Use of Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules
Section 11 is the key part of this move. It gives Directors of Civil Defence in each state the right to buy emergency supplies and equipment without lengthy procedures. This ensures immediate action if a crisis breaks out. It also helps improve the speed and coordination between departments like the police, fire brigade, medical services, and the disaster response teams.
Civil Defence Is Not Military Defence
It is important to note that civil defence does not involve weapons or soldiers. Its main goal is to protect civilians, keep essential services running, and prevent panic. It focuses on rescue operations, early warning systems, building shelters, and post-disaster recovery.
Simple Steps Being Taken by States
Since the announcement:
- States have started reviewing their emergency stockpiles.
- Hospitals are updating their trauma response teams.
- Fire departments and disaster response units are on standby.
- Awareness drives are being planned in sensitive border areas.
Final Note on Civil Rights and Accountability
The Centre has clarified that while these emergency powers are critical, states must also ensure transparency, accountability, and respect for citizen rights. All actions taken under civil defence must be appropriately documented. Compensation should be paid for damage caused during drills or emergency responses.
Disclaimer:
This news article is based on available information and official announcements by government agencies. Emergency actions must be implemented responsibly and within legal boundaries.
Source: TV9 Hindi, Ministry of Home Affairs
