After the completion of six months of Governor’s rule in Jammu & Kashmir on Wednesday, the State came under President’s rule from midnight, paving the way for the Centre to take all policy decisions related to the militancy-hit State.
President Ram Nath Kovind signed the proclamation for the imposition of Central rule in J&K, which plunged into a political crisis in June after the Mehbooba-led coalition Government was reduced to minority following withdrawal of support by the 25-member BJP.
The gazette notification issued on Wednesday said the President has received a report from Governor Satya Pal Malik and after considering it and other information, he was “satisfied” that President’s rule in the State was needed.
“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 & Kashmir and all the powers vested in or exercisable by the Governor of the State shall, subject to the superintendence, direction and control of the President, (and) be exercisable by the Governor of the State,” the notification said.
Since J&K has a separate Constitution, six months of Governor’s rule is compulsory under Article 92 of the J&K Constitution, under which all the legislature powers are vested with the Governor.