Catholic bishops’ body urges HM to withdraw FCRA Bill - The Shillong Times

Shillong, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has formally requested Home Minister Amit Shah to withdraw the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, along with the recently notified rules. The CBCI emphasized the need for both to be redrafted following broader consultations with various stakeholders.

The memorandum submitted to Shah raised significant concerns regarding the proposed FCRA Bill, particularly its implications for religious freedom, the rights of Scheduled Caste (SC) Christians, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Manipur. The document was signed by CBCI President Cardinal Anthony Poola and CBCI Secretary General Archbishop Anil Couto during their meeting with Shah.

The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, originally enacted in 1976, was designed to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign funds by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and associations in India. The Act has undergone several amendments over the years, with the aim of ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of foreign contributions. However, the latest proposed amendments have sparked widespread debate, particularly among religious and charitable organizations that rely on foreign funding for their operations.

The CBCI expressed apprehension that certain amendments to the FCRA could adversely affect charitable institutions that have been serving impoverished and vulnerable communities for decades. They urged the government to withdraw the proposed Amendment Bill and the newly notified rules, advocating for a redraft that includes wider stakeholder consultation. This call for broader discussions reflects a growing sentiment among various civil society groups, who argue that the current government has not adequately engaged with affected parties before introducing significant legislative changes.

The memorandum stressed that any changes to the law should only apply prospectively and should not infringe upon existing rights, legally acquired assets, or ongoing charitable activities. This point is particularly crucial, as many organizations fear that retroactive enforcement of the new rules could jeopardize their operations and lead to unintended consequences for the communities they serve. The CBCI also called for independent judicial oversight in FCRA cases, emphasizing the need for checks and balances in the enforcement of the law.

Concerns regarding the proposed amendments extend beyond procedural issues. The CBCI highlighted the necessity for a clear distinction between minor procedural lapses and serious offenses, asserting that charitable assets should continue to be utilized according to the intentions of the donors. This distinction is essential to maintain trust and integrity in the charitable sector, which plays a vital role in addressing social issues and providing essential services to marginalized populations.

In addition to the FCRA concerns, the CBCI raised issues related to various state freedom of religion Acts, alleging a persistent denial of SC status to Christians and other religious minorities of SC origin as outlined in the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950. The CBCI noted that these issues are currently pending before the Supreme Court and appealed for an expedited hearing and final judgment. The implications of these legal battles are significant, as they directly affect the social standing and rights of millions of citizens who identify as Christians within the SC category, impacting their access to educational and employment opportunities.

The delay in resolving these matters reportedly affects the dignity, equality, and constitutional rights of millions of citizens, creating uncertainty among minority communities. The CBCI's call for urgency reflects a broader concern about the erosion of rights for religious minorities in India, particularly in the context of rising communal tensions and socio-political challenges.

Furthermore, the CBCI underscored the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Manipur, where thousands of farming families have lost their livelihoods. Many students have faced disruptions in their education, and several families have fled the state in search of safety, education, and employment. The situation in Manipur has garnered national attention, with reports of violence and displacement raising alarms about the need for immediate humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution.

The Conference urged the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to take immediate action to restore lasting peace, communal harmony, and normalcy in Manipur. They reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to collaborate with the government in promoting reconciliation, humanitarian assistance, and social healing. This commitment highlights the role that religious institutions can play in peacebuilding efforts, particularly in regions experiencing ethnic and communal strife.

According to sources, the Home Minister responded by stating that the proposed FCRA amendments should not be perceived as targeting the Christian community. He noted that the donations received by Christian organizations under the FCRA constitute only a small fraction of total contributions and encouraged the delegation not to view the proposed law as being against Christians. This assertion aims to alleviate concerns within the Christian community, which has historically faced scrutiny and challenges regarding its operations and funding sources.

Shah also clarified that the proposed amendments would not have a retrospective effect. When the delegation raised concerns about attacks on Christians in various regions, he advised them to file FIRs and approach local police, assuring them of support. He also offered to assist directly if they were unsatisfied with local responses. This engagement from the Home Minister indicates a willingness to address grievances and foster dialogue between the government and religious communities, although skepticism remains regarding the effectiveness of local law enforcement in addressing communal violence.

The ongoing discussions surrounding the FCRA Bill and related issues underscore the complexities of governance in a diverse and pluralistic society like India. As the government navigates the balance between regulatory oversight and the protection of civil liberties, the voices of religious organizations, civil society, and affected communities will play a crucial role in shaping the future of foreign funding regulations and the broader landscape of religious freedom in the country.