FCRAAmendment – Church Body Raises Alarm Over Proposed Foreign Funding Law Changes
FCRAAmendment – India’s apex Catholic body has voiced strong reservations about proposed changes to foreign funding laws, warning of significant implications for civil liberties and institutional autonomy.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed deep unease over the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, recently introduced in the Lok Sabha. In an official statement issued on Thursday, the organisation described the proposed legislation as troubling, citing concerns about its potential impact on constitutional freedoms and the functioning of civil society groups.
Concerns Over Expanded Government Authority
According to the CBCI, the proposed amendments could considerably expand the powers of the central government, particularly in matters related to the regulation and renewal of licences for organisations receiving foreign contributions. The body cautioned that such provisions may pave the way for excessive administrative intervention, potentially affecting the independence of minority institutions and non-governmental organisations.
The statement highlighted that the government, acting as the licensing authority, would be able to deny renewals or revoke licences more easily under the new framework. Additionally, it raised objections to a provision that could allow authorities to take control of an organisation’s funds, assets, and properties through a newly introduced mechanism.
The CBCI described these measures as problematic, stating that they raise important questions about fairness, transparency, and accountability in governance.
Objections to Legislative Process
The organisation also took issue with the manner in which the Bill was introduced in Parliament. It suggested that the legislation was brought forward without sufficient consultation, noting that concerns raised by opposition members were not adequately addressed.
Calling for a more inclusive approach, the CBCI urged lawmakers to engage in broader discussions before proceeding with reforms that may affect fundamental rights. It stressed that any policy changes involving civil liberties should be carefully examined through dialogue and democratic processes.
Questions Over Constitutional Principles
In its statement, the CBCI further argued that certain provisions of the proposed law may conflict with established constitutional safeguards. Specifically, it pointed to clauses that would allow the government to assume control over foreign funds and assets of organisations once their registration under the law expires.
The body characterised such provisions as inconsistent with democratic norms and principles of natural justice. It warned that these measures could undermine trust in regulatory institutions and create uncertainty for organisations engaged in social, educational, and charitable activities.
Impact on Minority Institutions and Civil Society
The CBCI also expressed concern that the amendments could disproportionately affect minority-run institutions by placing them under a stricter regulatory environment. It noted that such measures might hinder the ability of these organisations to operate effectively, especially those reliant on foreign funding for welfare and development initiatives.
The statement emphasised that civil society organisations play a crucial role in supporting vulnerable communities and contributing to national development. Any regulatory changes, it said, should balance oversight with the need to protect the autonomy and functioning of these entities.
Government’s Proposed Framework
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, seeks to introduce a more comprehensive system for monitoring and managing foreign contributions. One of its key features is the creation of a designated authority empowered to oversee the vesting, supervision, and disposal of funds and assets associated with organisations that lose their licences.
This framework includes provisions for both temporary and permanent control of assets, reflecting a significant shift in how foreign-funded entities are regulated in India.
Call for Reconsideration
In conclusion, the CBCI has appealed to the government to revisit the proposed amendments and remove provisions it considers contentious. The organisation reiterated the importance of safeguarding constitutional rights and ensuring that regulatory mechanisms do not infringe upon the freedoms of citizens or institutions.
It called for a balanced approach that maintains transparency and accountability while respecting democratic values and institutional independence.