President’s rule imposed in Jammu and Kashmir

As Jammu and Kashmir completed six months under Governor’s rule, President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday imposed President’s rule in the state. Kovind signed the proclamation for imposition of Central rule in the state, which plunged into a political crisis in June after the Mehbooba Mufti-led coalition government collapsed. After 1996, this is the first time the Central rule has been imposed in the militancy-hit state. The gazette notification issued on Wednesday said the President has received a report from Governor Satya Pal Malik and after considering it, he was “satisfied” that President’s rule was required. “In pursuance…of the proclamation issued…by me under article 356 of the Constitution of India, I hereby direct that all the functions of the Government of the State of Jammu and Kashmir and all the powers vested in or exercisable by the Governor of that State…shall, subject to the superintendence, direction and control of the President, (and) be exercisable also by the Governor of the State,” the notification said. The Union cabinet took the decision on Monday after Governor Malik sent a report to the Centre, recommending imposition of President’s rule in the state. After the proclamation, the powers of the state Legislature shall be exercised by or under the authority of Parliament and all decisions will be taken with concurrence of the President with the council of Ministers and the PM advising the President. J&K sarpanches meet PM, discuss development Newly elected sarpanches from J&K called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday and sought assistance for development of the state. The members, led by chairman of All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) Shafiq Mir, said isolated incidents of stone pelting were being turned into prime-time debates on TV channels, while the voice of the majority was going unheard. The AJKPC is an apex body of panchayat leaders of the state. During the meeting, the Prime Minister reportedly told the panchayat representatives that the Centre is committed to the empowerment of the people. Source: Indian Express