FCRA Amendment Bill Explained: Key changes, Opposition's concerns and government's stand on foreign funding

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met with Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi to discuss pending legislative matters, including the FCRA Amendment Bill and a possible re-introduction of a constitutional amendment Bill related to the Delimitation Bill. The FCRA Amendment Bill aims to regulate foreign donations more effectively and enhance transparency in financial management.

NGOs express concerns that the bill may impose excessive controls over their operations and funding, particularly affecting minority communities that rely on foreign contributions. The bill proposes the creation of a designated authority to manage foreign-funded assets if an organization's registration is cancelled, surrendered, or ceases to exist. This authority would temporarily or permanently control these assets and oversee their activities in the public interest.

Critics argue that the bill could retroactively apply to organizations with lapsed FCRA registrations, impacting their previously accumulated assets and operations. The bill has been described as unconstitutional by AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal, who claims it would harm NGOs and community organizations, especially those run by minority communities. Opposition MP Derek O'Brien has also called the bill "draconian" and seeks an All-Party Meeting to discuss the proposed legislation.

Several protests have been held against the bill, with leaders from various political parties and religious organizations expressing their opposition. The bill's controversial provisions include the concept of "cessation" of an FCRA certificate and stricter requirements for obtaining certification and seeking legal remedies. Despite the concerns, the bill is set to be introduced in Parliament on August 13.