What Does the FCRA Amendment Bill Mean for Religious Organizations? Kiren Rijiju Weighs In
Union Minister Defends FCRA Amendment Bill
New Delhi: On Tuesday, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized that the amendment to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) is designed solely to prevent foreign funding from undermining national security, rather than targeting any specific religious group.
During a press briefing at the BJP headquarters, Rijiju criticized the Congress and Left parties for allegedly disseminating misinformation regarding the amendment.
He described their assertions about the Bill as 'entirely false, fabricated, and misleading.'
The FCRA amendment Bill was presented in the Lok Sabha on March 25, with the government clarifying that individuals involved in forced religious conversions through foreign funds would face consequences.
Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai, while introducing the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, stated that the legislation aims to improve transparency and ensure that foreign funds are utilized appropriately.
When questioned about the opposition's claims, Rijiju remarked, 'There are rumors propagated by the Communist Party and Congress in Kerala suggesting that the Indian government is introducing the FCRA amendment Bill to hinder the activities of various religious organizations.'
He asserted that the amendment is intended solely to regulate foreign funding in India and to prevent the misuse of funds for illegal activities.
'Funds that enter illegally can be used against national security. Therefore, these amendments are necessary for the sake of national security and public interest,' he added.
Rijiju accused the Left parties and Congress of spreading falsehoods about the amendments, fearing that the BJP would gain significant support in Kerala ahead of the state assembly elections.
'I categorically reject the rumors being circulated by Congress and Communist parties, particularly in Kerala. They are spreading lies,' the senior BJP leader stated.
In response, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan criticized the central government for the Bill, claiming it has instilled a sense of insecurity among certain societal groups.
At a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, he labeled the FCRA amendment Bill as a serious concern that has alarmed minority communities nationwide.
This statement followed his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to withdraw the proposed amendments to the FCRA.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged on Monday that the amendments would allow only the RSS to receive foreign funds, while restricting other organizations.
In retaliation, Rijiju clarified, 'The Bill does not target any religious group. It applies to all organizations, whether they are social, religious, or engaged in other activities.'
He asserted that the Modi government treats all groups equally and accused Congress and the Left of spreading lies, noting that Christian communities in Kerala are facing numerous challenges and are disillusioned with them.
'I have thoroughly reviewed the provisions of the Bill and assured various organizations that minorities are well-protected in India. In fact, India is one of the safest nations for all minorities globally,' Rijiju concluded.