The Central Government is reportedly preparing to reintroduce amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), reviving a proposal that was earlier introduced in the Lok Sabha but deferred following opposition from political parties and civil society groups.
The proposed amendments have drawn criticism from several international Christian organisations, which argue that the changes could increase government oversight of NGOs receiving foreign contributions and affect the functioning of faith-based charitable institutions.
Government Seeks Stronger Oversight of Foreign Funding
According to the government, the proposed amendments are intended to strengthen monitoring of foreign donations, improve transparency, and prevent misuse of funds received from overseas.
The move comes amid increased scrutiny of organisations receiving foreign funding under the FCRA framework.
Christian Organisations Express Concerns
International Christian organisations, including the U.S.-based International Christian Concern (ICC), have expressed concern over the proposed amendments.
The organisations claim the changes could make it easier for authorities to suspend or cancel FCRA registrations, potentially affecting the ability of NGOs to receive foreign funding and continue operations.
They argue that Christian-run institutions, including schools, hospitals and charitable organisations that rely on international donations, could face greater regulatory challenges.
Debate Over Religious Freedom
ICC has also alleged that Christian organisations are being unfairly targeted through allegations related to foreign-funded religious conversions. The organisation referred to reports by the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which has repeatedly raised concerns regarding religious freedom in India.
The Indian government has consistently rejected USCIRF’s findings, maintaining that they are biased and based on inaccurate assessments, while reiterating that India’s constitutional framework guarantees freedom of religion and equal rights for all citizens.
Bill Yet to be Reintroduced
The amendment bill was first introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25 but was not taken up after objections from opposition parties and civil society groups.
If reintroduced during the current Parliament session, it is expected to trigger fresh debate over the balance between national security, financial transparency and the functioning of organisations receiving foreign contributions.
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