India's FCRA bill targets 'anti-national activities,' not religion: Maharashtra CM

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis asserted that the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill is essential for curbing "anti-national activities" and is not aimed at any specific religion. He addressed concerns raised by the opposition Congress, which alleged the bill was anti-Christian.

Fadnavis emphasized that the legislation will apply universally to all organizations receiving foreign donations, irrespective of their religious affiliation or community. He assured that the bill would not impede legitimate work carried out by organizations. "For those who do good work, this Bill will cause no obstruction or hardship. FCRA provisions will remain; those who will account for themselves will also keep their licence," he stated.

The proposed amendments come after the government notified new FCRA rules in June, requiring NGOs to select from a predefined list for receiving foreign funds. While faith-based activities are permitted, proselytization has been excluded from several eligible categories. Christian organizations, including the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India, have appealed to the government to reconsider the proposed legislation and rules.

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The reason for bringing the amendment is that some organizations have been bringing money into this country using the FCRA, and this money is being used for anti-national activities. For those who do good work, this Bill will cause no obstruction or hardship. FCRA provisions will remain; those who will account for themselves will also keep their licence.

Responding to concerns from a U.S. lawmaker, Fadnavis suggested that such statements underscored the necessity of the law. He reiterated that the central government is receptive to feedback and that the bill is not discriminatory. "If any community or any institution wants to receive donations from abroad, they will have to obtain FCRA approval," he added.

The FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25 and is expected to be debated in Parliament soon. Fadnavis also commented on a scheduled meeting between NCP (SP) MPs and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling it a "good thing" and emphasizing the Prime Minister's role as a national leader.

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I'll say again that the Central government is a government that listens to everyone. This Bill is not against any one community. If any community or any institution wants to receive donations from abroad, they will have to obtain FCRA approval.