Kolkata: Defence Minister George Fernandes on July 21 ruled out the possibility of imposition of Central rule in West Bengal, citing lack of numbers of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the Rajya Sabha, but assured that it would chalk out steps to "save humanity" and "restore democracy" in the state, which has been under prolonged Marxist rule.

Describing law and order in the state as far "worse" than painted, Fernandes, also the NDA convenor, told a mammoth rally organised by the Trinamool Congress (TC), "The NDA government abides by the Constitution. This is not a government that disrespects the Constitution. It does not have the required majority in the Upper House to pass the imposition of Article 356 in Bengal."

Fernandes, who came down heavily on the Communist Party of India (CPM)-led ruling front amidst cheers by TC supporters, said that like in Bihar, terror, violence and lawlessness were rampant in the state under prolonged rule of Marxists.

PTI