Dimapur, July 26 (MExN): The United Christian Forum (UCF) has made an appeal to Members of Parliament from Northeast, urging them to intervene against the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 (FCRA). It expressed that the proposed legislation is “draconian” and threatens to block natural justice for law-abiding citizens and charitable organizations.
In a statement released here, the UCF has requested parliamentarians to push for the referral of the Bill to a Parliamentary Standing Committee for wider consultations, arguing that the proposed amendments, while ostensibly aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight, could severely disrupt the tradition of voluntary and faith-based service in the country.
The Forum highlighted concerns regarding the constitutional balance and the future of civil society. It specifically urged lawmakers to ensure that administrative lapses do not result in disproportionate penalties, such as the seizure of assets, and to introduce clear safeguards to uphold due process and judicial oversight.
Drawing attention to India’s long-standing tradition of charitable institutions complementing state efforts in reaching the poorest, the UCF stressed the need to protect the autonomy of charitable, educational, and faith-based institutions. It called for a regulatory framework based on “transparency, proportionality, and trust.”
Highlighting the need for impartial adjudication, the UCF has demanded the establishment of an independent appellate authority to ensure effective redressal of grievances.
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