Cardinal Poola Urges Centre to Reconsider FCRA Amendment Bill

New Delhi, August 9, 2026: Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) president Cardinal Anthony Poola has urged the Centre to reconsider and withdraw the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) Amendment Bill 2026, saying some of its provisions could hamper the functioning of grassroots charitable organisations.

In a representation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Cardinal Poola said the Catholic Church supports transparency, accountability and appropriate regulation of foreign contributions but cautioned against measures that could inadvertently disrupt legitimate charitable activities.

The Cardinal highlighted the Church’s contribution to education, healthcare, social welfare and humanitarian assistance, particularly among poor and marginalised communities. Catholic institutions and organisations run schools, healthcare facilities and social-service programmes in several parts of the country.

He said any changes to the FCRA should take into account the operational realities of organisations working directly with vulnerable communities.

Seeks Joint Parliamentary Committee Review

Cardinal Poola called for the proposed legislation to be referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for detailed scrutiny and consultation with civil society and faith-based organisations.

According to the appeal, parliamentary examination and wider consultation could help assess the practical impact of the proposed amendments and identify a regulatory framework that balances the Government’s responsibility to monitor foreign funding with the ability of genuine organisations to continue their charitable work.

The CBCI president emphasised that regulatory safeguards and institutional accountability are necessary but should not result in unnecessary restrictions on organisations providing essential services to disadvantaged communities.

The appeal comes amid broader debate over proposed amendments to the FCRA and their implications for organisations receiving foreign contributions.

Cardinal Poola reaffirmed the Church’s willingness to engage with the Government on matters concerning its charitable and social mission.

“We remain committed to serving our nation with faith, compassion and responsibility,” he said, concluding his appeal with the words, “God bless India.”

Courtesy CBCI