Congress dubs President's rule in Arunachal as 'murder of democracy'

The Congress on Tuesday dubbed the President's rule in Arunachal Pradesh as 'murder of democracy' by the BJP-led Centre and accused it of misusing power.

"Bharatiya Janata Party wants its government everywhere. You can't impose President's rule because people didn't favor you. We will fight in the court and also tell the people how the BJP misuses its power. It is very unfortunate and it is a murder of democracy," Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge told ANI.

Kharge further ruled out that Arunachal is a sensitive area and if anything goes wrong there, then the BJP would be held responsible for that.

Echoing similar sentiments, Congress leader Randeep Surjewala tweeted, "Republic's founding principles of Democracy & Federalism gutted by Modiji on Republic Day! Will fight Central Rule in Arunachal tooth&nail."

"Sun rises in India's east. BJP, however, eclipses Constitution's ethos by imposing Central rule in Arunachal. Federalism trampled by Modiji," he added.

President Pranab Mukherjee today gave his assent to imposition of central rule in Arunachal Pradesh. Two days back, Union Cabinet had recommended President's Rule following the political crisis in the state.

In December last year, Arunachal Pradesh was rocked by a political crisis as 21 rebel Congress MLAs joined hands with 11 of BJP and two independents to impeach Assembly Speaker Nabam Rebia at a makeshift venue.

The move was termed as illegal and unconstitutional by the Speaker. The rebel group MLAs congregated at a community hall after the state Assembly complex was allegedly sealed by the local administration, and impeached Mr. Rebia in an impromptu session chaired by Deputy Speaker.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has decided to hear on January 27 the Congress' plea challenging the Cabinet decision.