Mizoram Churches Plan Protest Against Foreign Contribution Bill

The Council of Churches in Mizoram is organizing a protest march on August 11 in Aizawl against the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. The council, representing major Christian denominations, has raised concerns that the bill could adversely affect churches and organizations reliant on foreign funding. While some provisions in the bill are seen as positive, significant shortcomings have been identified. The protest aims to unite various churches and voluntary organizations in opposition to the legislation, which is expected to be discussed in the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament. This demonstration marks a significant moment for Mizoram's church bodies as they voice their concerns over the potential impact on their operations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2026, 14:49 IST

Protest March Scheduled in Aizawl

CCM president Rev. R. Lalbiakliana (centre) during the press conference, on Thursday. (AT Photo)

Aizawl, July 30: The Council of Churches in Mizoram (CCM), which represents the primary Christian denominations in the state, is set to hold a protest march in Aizawl on August 11. This demonstration is in response to the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.

The council raised concerns that certain aspects of the draft bill could negatively impact churches and organizations that rely on foreign funding. This announcement was made during a press conference at the Aizawl Press Club on Thursday.

Rev. R. Lalbiakliana, president of the CCM, stated that all churches in Mizoram, including those not affiliated with the CCM, along with various voluntary organizations, will be invited to participate in the protest.

While acknowledging that the proposed amendments include some beneficial elements, Lalbiakliana pointed out significant flaws that could hinder church operations.

The CCM consists of nine member churches, including the Mizoram Presbyterian Church, Baptist Church of Mizoram, Evangelical Church of Mizoram, Lairam Isua Krista Baptist Church, Evangelical Free Church of India, Isua Krista Church, Independent Church of India, Wesleyan Methodist Church of Mizoram, and Zomi Baptist Church.

This legislation aims to enhance transparency and ensure that foreign funding does not jeopardize national interests.

However, church leaders in Mizoram are worried that the proposed changes could disrupt the activities of churches and faith-based organizations that depend on foreign aid.

Opposition to the amendments is gaining traction in the state. On July 26, the Baptist Church of Mizoram held special prayer services across its congregations, seeking divine guidance regarding the proposed changes.

The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) governs the acceptance and use of foreign contributions by individuals, associations, and NGOs in India.

As the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, is anticipated to be discussed during the current Monsoon Session of Parliament, the protest on August 11 is expected to be the first organized public demonstration by Mizoram's church bodies against this legislation.