President’s Rule imposed in Uttarakhand, Congress cries Foul

Less than 24 hours before the crucial trust vote in Uttarakhand Assembly, the centre has imposed President’s Rule in the state, based on the report sent by Governor Dr. KK Paul. The Congress leadership and CM Harish Rawat called it ‘unconstitutional’ and ‘murder of democracy’.

The Cabinet meeting chaired by PM Narendra Modi last night, had reportedly decided in favour of President’s Rule. The government received Presidential assent this afternoon. The Assembly won’t be dissolved. It would be out under suspended animation to keep the options of government formation open.

Earlier last night, the Uttarakhand Speaker had declared 9 Congress rebel MLAs ‘disqualified’ under the anti-defection law, reducing the strength of the Assembly to 61 from 70. The Congress has 27 MLAs while they also enjoy the support of 6 MLAs of Progressive Democratic Front.

Meanwhile, rebel Congress leader and former CM Vijay Bahuguna has called for the dissolution of assembly and fresh polls in the state.