FCRA amendments criticized as unfair, opaque, and arbitrary
Recent amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), though temporarily stalled, are criticized for empowering the Centre to arbitrarily seize assets of organizations losing their FCRA license. The proposed Bill, introduced in March 2026, aims to establish a "designated authority" to manage such assets without judicial oversight, raising concerns about natural justice. Critics argue the move is selective and opaque, particularly affecting Christian groups, and contrasts with the state's policy of seeking foreign funds in other sectors. The FCRA has been progressively tightened since its enactment in 1976 and amendments in 2010 and 2020.
Key Points
- Proposed FCRA amendments allow the Centre to arbitrarily seize assets of organizations whose FCRA licenses are revoked.
- The amendments establish a "designated authority" to manage seized assets without judicial determination, violating natural justice principles.
- Critics argue the move is selective, opaque, and disproportionately affects certain groups like Christian organizations.
- The government's approach to foreign funds is inconsistent, seeking them in some sectors while restricting them in others.
Exam Facts
- Act: Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
- Bill to amend FCRA introduced in Lok Sabha on March 25, 2026.
- FCRA first enacted: 1976.
- FCRA reenacted: 2010 (UPA regime).
- FCRA amended: 2020 (Narendra Modi government).
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