Christian Groups Oppose FCRA Amendment Bill as RSS-Linked Organisations Extend Support

NEW DELHI, 13 November 2026: Christian organisations have strongly opposed the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, demanding its withdrawal over concerns that the proposed legislation could undermine religious freedom and disrupt welfare services for marginalised communities. Meanwhile, organisations affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) have welcomed the Bill, describing it as an important step towards regulating foreign contributions.

The contrasting positions emerged during a meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the proposed legislation at the Parliament House complex in New Delhi on 12 November.

Christian groups raise concerns

Representatives of several Christian organisations, including the National Council of Churches in India, Apostles Methodist Church, Evangelical Church of India and Jesus Redeems, strongly opposed the proposed amendments.

According to sources familiar with the committee proceedings, the Christian representatives argued that the legislation, if enacted, could seriously affect the community's religious independence and restrict its ability to serve vulnerable sections of society.

They expressed concern that Christian institutions and non-governmental organisations involved in education, healthcare and social welfare could face difficulties in continuing their charitable activities if legitimate foreign contributions were restricted.

The organisations called on the government to withdraw the proposed Bill, warning of its potential consequences for minority communities and those dependent on their social services.

RSS-linked organisations support legislation

In contrast, representatives of RSS-linked organisations welcomed the proposed amendments, maintaining that foreign contributions must be properly regulated to ensure transparency and accountability.

Among the organisations supporting the Bill were Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad and Rashtriya Sewa Bharati.

They described the proposed legislation as a positive step towards strengthening oversight of foreign funding and ensuring that overseas contributions are utilised appropriately.

Bill referred to parliamentary committee

The FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 25 March and referred to the Joint Parliamentary Committee on 12 August following objections from Opposition parties.

Critics have raised concerns that certain provisions could affect legitimate foreign funding received by Christian NGOs and minority-run educational and welfare institutions.

The government, however, has rejected allegations that the legislation targets religious minorities, maintaining that its purpose is to improve transparency, prevent misuse of foreign contributions and ensure proper utilisation of funds.

Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai has defended the proposed amendments, emphasising the need to prevent the misuse of overseas funding.

The opposing submissions before the JPC highlight the continuing debate over balancing regulatory oversight with religious freedom and the work of charitable institutions in India.

Courtesy : Deccan Chronicle