Centre says FCRA amendment is India’s internal matter after remarks by US Congressman
The Central government on Friday asserted that proposed changes to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) fall within India’s domestic legislative process, responding to criticism from a United States lawmaker over the proposed amendments.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Parliament alone is responsible for deciding legislative matters concerning India. He also noted that several countries, including the United States, regulate the flow of foreign funds into organisations operating within their borders.
The response came after US Congressman Riley Moore raised concerns over the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026. In a post on social media, Moore claimed certain provisions could allow government intervention in churches and religious charities, describing the proposal as a matter that could affect India-US relations.
Moore referred to the long history of Christianity in India and argued that the proposed legislation could have implications for religious institutions receiving overseas funding. He further stated that, if enacted without changes, the Bill would become a significant issue in bilateral ties between the two countries.
The FCRA governs the receipt and utilisation of foreign contributions by organisations in India, including charitable trusts, educational institutions, religious organisations and non-governmental bodies.
The proposed amendments seek to revise the framework governing how eligible institutions receive and manage foreign donations. The legislation is expected to be taken up through the parliamentary process, where its provisions will be debated before any final decision is made.
