FCRA ISSUE
SHILLONG, July 5: Amidst growing concerns in Meghalaya over proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), particularly a clause that would empower a designated authority to take over or dispose of assets — including buildings, schools, hospitals and land — created with foreign contributions in cases where an organisation’s registration is cancelled or not renewed, a delegation led by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Sunday and conveyed these apprehensions.
The key apprehension centres on Section 16A(5) of the amended FCRA. Church bodies and civil society groups fear that if an organisation’s registration is cancelled or not renewed, authorities could take control of buildings, schools, hospitals, land and other assets built with foreign funds. These institutions have for decades run schools, colleges, hospitals and welfare programmes that serve thousands of students and patients every year, especially in rural and remote areas where government infrastructure is limited.
During the meeting, the delegation highlighted how the proposed changes could disrupt the functioning of religious, educational and charitable institutions that have long complemented government efforts in education, healthcare and community development.
Sangma emphasised that any regulatory changes must take into account Meghalaya’s unique circumstances and ensure that genuine institutions engaged in public service can continue their work without undue disruption.
He appealed to the Centre to adopt a balanced and consultative approach that recognises the contributions of these organisations while addressing regulatory concerns.
The proposed FCRA Amendment Bill 2026 has sparked debate across the country. While the government has maintained that stricter oversight is necessary to enhance transparency and prevent misuse of foreign funds, opposition parties, church bodies and civil society groups have expressed apprehension that certain clauses — especially those related to asset control — could have unintended consequences for institutions operating in underserved regions. Several stakeholders have called for clear guidelines, due process and an appellate mechanism.
The delegation comprised senior representatives of major Christian denominations and organisations in the state, including the Presbyterian Church of India (PCI), the North East India Christian Council (NEICC), the Catholic Archdiocese of Shillong and the Garo Baptist Convention.
The delegation included Rev. H.L. Myrsing, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of India; Rev. S.C. Diengngan, Chairman of the PCI’s FCRA Sub-Committee; Rev. Dr. Meyu Changkiri, General Secretary of the NEICC; Fr. Teiboklang Kharbani, Administrator of the Archdiocese of Shillong; and Durasal R. Marak, Youth Director of the Garo Baptist Convention.
It may be added that the Voice of the People Party (VPP) had earlier written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking safeguards to protect NGO assets and ensure uninterrupted delivery of welfare services. Local leaders, including senior BJP legislator A.L. Hek, have also urged wider consultations with stakeholders before finalising the FCRA amendments.
