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No Central rule in Bengal, says Fernandes

Kolkata, July 21
Defence Minister and NDA Convener George Fernandes today ruled out imposition of Central rule in West Bengal, citing lack of majority in the Rajya Sabha, but said the BJP-led alliance was contemplating steps outside the Constitution to “save humanity” in the state.

The CPM described Mr Fernandes’ statement as “unfortunate”.

Accusing the CPM-led ruling Left Front of “unleashing state-sponsored terror and violence to subvert democracy,” he said the NDA government did not have the required majority in the Upper House to impose Article 356 in West Bengal.

However, it was the responsibility of the NDA to find “some means” outside the Constitution to “save humanity” and “restore democracy” in the state, Mr Fernandes said addressing a Trinamool Congress-sponsored ‘martyrs day’ rally here. — PTI