Oppn may press for statement by Shah as govt set to table FCRA bill

Opposition parties are determined to press for a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah regarding police brutality during student protests in Jantar Mantar. This demand remains firm, even if the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill is introduced in Parliament next week. The controversial bill, debated during the budget session, may be taken up for debate and approval in the Lok Sabha soon.

Manipur CM Lalduhoma mentioned the debate's likelihood on August 12. Congress Rajya Sabha floor leader Jairam Ramesh confirmed the Opposition's stance, reiterating the demand for Shah's statement on the police excess. The bill seeks to cancel FCRA certificates upon expiry or refusal of renewal, establish a designated authority for managing foreign contributions, and allow the government to take over, manage, or sell assets of NGOs whose FCRA licenses are revoked or not renewed.

The Opposition, however, wishes to participate in the debate and voice their objections to the bill, arguing it's not just against Christians but all sections of society. While the Opposition holds a clear focus on Shah's statement, they may alter their plan if the FCRA bill comes to the floor.