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Catalonian Referendum - Part II

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October 20, 2017

Click here for Part I

Why in news?

Spain’s Central government said that it will move to seize some of the Catalan regional government’s powers.

What was the measure?

  • Separatist leaders of Catalonia recently conducted a referendum.
  • The majority voted ‘yes’ for separation. The supporters of ‘no’ mostly restrained from voting.
  • Following this, Catalonia’s separatist leader indicated that he could declare independence.
  • The central government in Madrid had warned that it would trigger Article 155 of Spain’s Constitution unless separatists backed down.
  • This measure will allow them to impose direct rule over the wealthy north-eastern region.
  • If Madrid triggers Article 155, in response, Catalan lawmakers could vote to declare secession unilaterally.

What could be the consequences?

  • In such case Madrid might potentially suspend the present Catalan government and take over its police force.
  • Catalans who even oppose independence cherish their autonomy highly.
  • So this could spark unrest in a region.
  • The Catalonia crisis has prompted a series of huge street rallies and worried investors.
  • More than 800 companies have moved their legal headquarters out of Catalonia, citing the risk of instability.
  • Madrid has cut its national growth forecast for next year to 2.3%.
  • This also adds to the woes of a European Union already grappling with Brexit.

 

Source: The Hindu

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