Maharashtra CM Fadnavis says FCRA bill aims to curb anti-national activities, not target any religion

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated on Monday that the recently introduced Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill is intended to combat anti-national activities, and not target any specific religion. Addressing reporters at a programme in Nagpur, Fadnavis clarified that the proposed law would apply to all organizations receiving foreign donations, regardless of their religious or communal affiliations, and would not hinder legitimate organizations from carrying out their work.

In June this year, the government had notified amended FCRA rules for receiving foreign funds, which required non-governmental organizations to select from a predefined list of purposes and areas of operation. However, these rules explicitly excluded proselytisation from several categories eligible for registration under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).

Christian groups, including the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI), have expressed opposition to the proposed FCRA changes, appealing to the Union government to withdraw the legislation and the newly introduced rules. Fadnavis, however, emphasized that the FCRA provisions would remain in place, and those who contribute positively to society would not face any obstacles or difficulties.

The chief minister reassured that the government is open to feedback on the Bill and that this issue is not confined to any one community. He reiterated that the FCRA is not exclusively for Christian organizations but covers all entities, irrespective of their religious or communal backgrounds. The Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25 and is expected to be discussed in Parliament soon.

Upon learning about a US lawmaker's statement raising concerns about the FCRA Bill, Fadnavis defended the legislation, stating that the US lawmaker's remark highlights the necessity of bringing the law into existence. He reiterated that the Central government is receptive to all opinions and that the Bill is not against any specific community.