Centre failed to uphold article 355 and 356 of Indian constitution: Raghav Chadha

PRESS RELEASE RAJYA SABHA PARLIAMENTARY GROUP AAM AADMI PARTY 24TH JULY 2023

24TH JULY 2023

AAP Senior Leader and Rajya Sabha MP Shri Raghav Chadha attacked the central government for its failure to uphold Article 355 and 356 of the Indian constitution.  The MP also submitted a Suspension of Business Notice under rule 267 to discuss failures of state & central govt in Manipur.

“According to Article 355 of the constitution, it is the responsibility of the central government to ensure peace in states and protect them from both external aggression and internal disturbances” Shri Raghav Chadha said, highlighting that Manipur is clearly experiencing internal disturbance, and it is the duty of the centre to safeguard the state. “However, the central govt has failed to fulfil this obligation” he added.

Shri Raghav Chadha also reminded the central govt of Article 356, which states that if the governor reports a breakdown of law and order and constitutional machinery in a state, the centre and President must take action and impose President's rule in the state. He pointed out that the Manipur governor has been repeatedly raising concerns about the dire situation in the state through various media outlets. Thousands of people have become homeless, and hundreds have lost their lives. Despite this, the central government has not taken any decisive action.

He accused the central govt of prioritising its political interests over the welfare of the people and the state. He questioned whether the centre would have acted differently if the government in Manipur were central govt. He expressed shock and concern that President's rule has not been imposed despite the ongoing catastrophe in Manipur, suggesting that the central govt desire to retain power in the state is overshadowing the suffering of the people.

He further stated that he and other opposition leaders have submitted a notice under Rule 267 for the suspension of business in the house to discuss the Manipur issue. They intend to stage a protest to draw the attention of the central govt to the plight of the people of Manipur and urge them to take appropriate action.