Meghalaya: VPP urges Centre to take ‘balanced approach’ on proposed FCRA amendments
Guwahati: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) in Meghalaya has urged the Centre to adopt a “balanced approach” to the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), warning that some provisions could affect property rights and disrupt welfare services.
In a representation submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the party expressed “deep concern” over clauses that may allow the government to take over or control assets of organisations whose FCRA registration is cancelled.
“While we acknowledge the legitimate role of the Government of India in ensuring transparency, accountability and national security… certain provisions have generated widespread apprehension among civil society organisations,” the VPP said.
The party raised concerns over the provision enabling the State to assume control over assets, saying it “raises serious questions about proportionality, due process and the potential for misuse”.
Highlighting the possible regional impact, the VPP said many organisations in the Northeast play a crucial role in delivering essential services such as education, healthcare and rural development.
It added that several such institutions are run by minority communities, including Christian groups, and operate extensively in remote and underserved areas.
“Any policy framework that creates uncertainty regarding ownership and management may inadvertently disrupt these services and affect the livelihoods of countless beneficiaries,” the party said.
The VPP said it expects the Centre to frame a policy that safeguards national interests while also protecting the role of civil society in development.
The proposed amendments were introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25 by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai. The Bill seeks to strengthen transparency and ensure proper utilisation of foreign funds, while preventing misuse that could threaten national security and interests. It is yet to be taken up for discussion.