'Invoke emergency powers under civil defence rules': MHA to all states, UTs as India-Pakistan tensions rise

NEW DELHI: The ministry of home affairs on Friday asked all states and Union territories to invoke civil defence measures under the Civil Defence Act and Rules of 1968 as India-Pakistan tensions escalate. Calls to reinforce civil defence preparedness have intensified following a major security incident along the India-Pakistan border.

"In the current hostile attack scenario, I would like to draw your kind attention towards Section 11 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, which inter-alia empowers he State Governments, to take such measures, which in the opinion of the state government necessary for the protection of persons and property from injury or damage, or for ensuring the due maintenance of the vital services, in the event of hostile attack," the letter said.

"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 and UT, may be granted so that efficient implementation of the necessary precautionary measures can be implemented," it added.

Union home minister Amit Shah also chaired a meeting with the director generals of BSF, CISF, BCAS, home secretary and director of IB to review security along Pakistan border and airports, PTI reported citing sources.

Pakistan, on Thursday, launched a series of coordinated drone and missile strikes targeting areas in Jammu and Kashmir and Rajasthan.

Indian defence officials confirmed that the majority of the incoming threats were successfully intercepted by the country's air defence systems, including the advanced S-400 missile system, effectively averting major damage.

The strikes came in retaliation to Operation Sindoor launched by Indian Armed Forces after the Pahalgama attack that killed 25 Indians and one Nepalese citizen.

Under the operations, India targeted nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied infrastructure.