Ardent raises concern over asset takeover provision in Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 6: Amid the raging controversy over the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, which has drawn sharp criticism for granting the Centre sweeping powers—including the takeover and management of assets of organisations whose FCRA registration is cancelled, surrendered, or ceased—the Voice of the People Party (VPP) in Meghalaya has joined the chorus of concern.
Critics of the Bill argue that the new provisions for provisional and permanent vesting of foreign contributions and assets (including those created partly from foreign funds) in a government-designated authority, along with powers to transfer or dispose of such assets, could undermine property rights, institutional autonomy, and civil society operations across the country.
In a representation submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit has specifically urged the government to reconsider the asset takeover provisions. He stressed the need to safeguard property rights and institutional autonomy, while ensuring that any regulatory action is guided by principles of natural justice, transparency, and due process.
The VPP chief also called for wider consultations with stakeholders, including civil society groups, minority institutions, and representatives from the northeastern states, including Meghalaya, before finalising the amendments.
Expressing concern over the reported provisions, Basaiawmoit said that the clause enabling the government to assume control over assets of organisations whose FCRA registration is cancelled could have far-reaching implications.
While acknowledging the Centre’s role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and national security in matters related to foreign funding, he cautioned that such sweeping powers may raise serious questions about proportionality and the potential for misuse.
Basaiawmoit pointed out that many institutions, particularly in the Northeast, have been established over decades through lawful means and continue to serve as key pillars of social welfare in sectors such as education, healthcare, and rural development.
He highlighted that a significant number of these institutions are run by minority communities, including Christian organisations, which have historically played a vital role in delivering essential services in remote and underserved areas.
The VPP chief warned that any uncertainty regarding ownership or management could disrupt these services and adversely impact beneficiaries.
“In a state like Meghalaya, where non-governmental organisations complement government efforts in development, overly stringent regulatory measures may hinder grassroots initiatives and weaken community-based institutions,” Basaiawmoit stated.
The party also urged the Centre to introduce adequate safeguards to ensure that genuine charitable and developmental work is not adversely affected by the proposed amendments.
Stressing on the need for a balanced approach, the VPP chief said such a framework should safeguard national interests while protecting the invaluable contributions of civil society and non-governmental organisations to nation-building.
Basaiawmoit expressed hope that the concerns of people, particularly those in vulnerable and remote regions, would be given due consideration before the Bill is finalised.
