Christian groups demand withdrawal of FCRA Bill, RSS-linked organisations back proposed law

Several Christian organisations on Thursday (November 12) demanded the withdrawal of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill, 2026, arguing that its provisions could undermine religious freedom and disrupt services to marginalised communities.

The National Council of Churches in India, Apostles Methodist Church and Evangelical Church of India raised their concerns before a joint parliamentary committee examining the Bill, The Economic Times reported, citing sources.

In contrast, organisations linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), including Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad and Rashtriya Sewa Bharati, supported the proposed legislation. They argued that foreign contributions needed regulation and described the Bill as a step in the right direction.

The Bill was referred to the joint parliamentary committee on August 4 through a voice vote, despite protests from opposition parties demanding its withdrawal. The resolution was moved by Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai in the Lok Sabha, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah was absent.

The government had earlier deferred the Bill on April 1 during the Budget session following opposition from political parties and Christian leaders in Kerala ahead of the Assembly elections.

The proposed legislation seeks to establish a “designated authority” with powers to take provisional or permanent control of assets belonging to NGOs whose FCRA licences are cancelled, surrendered or expire. The authority would also be able to manage and dispose of these assets.

Other provisions include timelines for the utilisation of foreign funds, regulation of assets during licence suspensions, changes to penalties and a requirement for prior central government approval before investigations can be initiated.