Gogoi slams move for President's rule in Arunachal Pradesh

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Monday condemned the union cabinet's decision to recommend President's rule in Arunachal Pradesh, saying it is against the spirit of democracy and cooperative federalism.

Addressing a press conference at his residence, Gogoi said it is not appropriate to recommend President's rule in Arunachal Pradesh as there had not been any serious breakdown in law and order in the hill state.

"The political crisis is on in Arunachal Pradesh for last few days. However, it is sub judice as the matter is in the Supreme Court and the apex court had already referred the matter to a Constitutional Bench of the court and hearing is continuing. The next date of hearing of the court is not very far and the Cabinet should have waited at least for the next date of hearing," said Gogoi.

Gogoi blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the Centre for the whole issue, saying they (the BJP) have been trying to do it everywhere -- Assam, Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram and everywhere in the region.

"This indicates the dictatorial attitude of the NDA government at the Centre," said Gogoi.

The union government had recommended imposition of President's rule in Arunachal Pradesh on Sunday amidst the continuing political crisis.

The Centre's decision has further exacerbated the crisis as a constitutional bench is currently hearing the case in the Supreme Court.