Shillong, Apr 8: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong and representatives of the Catholic Church, today met Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju in New Delhi to discuss concerns regarding the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill.
During the interaction, the delegation highlighted the vital role played by educational, healthcare and social service institutions across Meghalaya and the North East, particularly in remote and tribal regions. Many of these institutions, supported through foreign contributions, continue to serve marginalised communities and contribute significantly to regional development.
The delegation expressed concerns over certain provisions in the proposed amendment to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), especially those related to seizure of properties, which have raised apprehensions among Christian organisations and other civil society groups. They emphasised the need for wider consultation and detailed deliberations to ensure that such concerns are adequately addressed.
“We have conveyed the concerns expressed by Christian organisations, particularly regarding provisions related to seizure of properties, and emphasised the need for a balanced and consultative approach,” Sangma said after the meeting.
Opposition parties have accused the central government of wanting to attack Christian institutions, NGOs and civil society groups working in the field of public and social welfare by amending the FCRA. Sangma, however, did not take that stance as his National People’s Party (NPP) is an ally of the Hindutva-inspired Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that rules the central government.
Highlighting the broader impact of such institutions, Sangma said, “Institutions supported through foreign contributions have been playing a transformative role in delivering education, healthcare and social services in some of the most remote and underserved areas of Meghalaya and the North East.”
Rijiju assured the delegation that the concerns would be carefully examined. He further assured that consultations with stakeholders would be undertaken and necessary discussions held before finalising any amendments.
“Our objective is to work constructively with the government of India to ensure that the law safeguards both national interests and the invaluable contributions of charitable and faith-based institutions,” Sangma added. “We remain hopeful that through dialogue and engagement, a solution will emerge that protects the rights of organisations while strengthening regulatory mechanisms.”
The FCRA regulates the acceptance and utilisation of foreign contributions by individuals, associations, and companies.
The FCRA Amendment Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25, seeks to enhance transparency and ensure proper utilisation of foreign funds, while preventing their misuse against national security and interests.
