New Delhi: The Government of India has introduced the FCRA Amendment Bill 2026 in the Lok Sabha, triggering protests and concern among Christian churches and civil society groups across the country.
The proposed changes to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act aim to tighten control over how organisations receive and use foreign funds. The government says the bill is meant to ensure transparency and prevent misuse of money, including activities that may go against national interests.
However, the bill has drawn strong criticism, especially from Christian organisations that run schools, hospitals and social service centres.
One of the most debated provisions in the bill allows the government to take control of assets belonging to organisations whose FCRA licences are cancelled or not renewed. These assets could include institutions built using foreign donations, such as educational and healthcare facilities that serve poor and marginalised communities.
The bill also proposes the creation of a government appointed authority to manage such assets. In addition, it places restrictions on how organisations can transfer or use their properties if they lose their licence.
Church leaders have expressed deep concern that these provisions could affect the independence of charitable institutions. They fear that long established centres of service could be taken over, disrupting essential support for vulnerable people.
Many Christian groups have described the bill as alarming and have urged the government to reconsider its approach. They say the law may weaken minority rights and create uncertainty for organisations working in education, health care and social welfare.
Protests have been reported in several parts of the country, with church representatives and civil society members calling for safeguards to protect genuine charitable work.
Opposition parties have also raised objections in Parliament, arguing that the bill gives excessive powers to the central government and could limit the functioning of non governmental organisations.
Despite the criticism, the government has defended the bill, stating that it is necessary to regulate foreign funding and ensure accountability. Officials have said that genuine organisations have nothing to fear and that the law is aimed only at preventing misuse.
The bill is currently under discussion in Parliament, and its final shape may depend on further debate and possible revisions. Meanwhile, church leaders and civil society groups continue to appeal for changes that will protect the autonomy of charitable institutions while maintaining transparency in funding.