Nagaland Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir calls for comprehensive consultations are held with all stakeholders and political parties on proposed FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026. (Morung File Photo)
Dimapur, August 11 (MExN): Nagaland Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) S Supongmeren Jamir has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to defer the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, until comprehensive consultations are held with all stakeholders and political parties, expressing concern over its potential impact on institutions engaged in education, healthcare and charitable services.
In a communication to the Home Minister dated August 11, Jamir cautioned that while regulation of foreign contributions is necessary to safeguard national security and public order, the new legislation must not adversely affect legitimate welfare organisations.
He specifically flagged the proposed creation of a “Designated Authority” under the Bill, which would oversee the vesting, supervision, and disposal of assets of organisations whose FCRA certificates have been cancelled, surrendered, or not renewed.
The MP cautioned that such provisions could have serious consequences for institutions that have utilised foreign funds to create educational, healthcare, and other public-service infrastructure, particularly those serving vulnerable sections of society.
He stressed that the framework must be examined in light of constitutional protections, including Article 300A, which provides that no person shall be deprived of property except by authority of law, and called for adequate safeguards, transparency, and due process.
Citing data from the FCRA portal as of July 15, 2026, compiled by PRS Legislative Research, Jamir noted that 22,498 FCRA registrations have been cancelled across the country, while 15,212 certificates have expired without renewal. In Nagaland, he said, out of 262 FCRA registrations, approximately 70 percent have been cancelled. He also referred to around 14,444 organisations currently engaged in activities including colleges, orphanages, healthcare, and charitable work.
Jamir emphasised that organisations in these sectors perform important nation-building functions and should not be penalised by regulatory measures intended to address misuse of foreign contributions. He urged the government to hold extensive consultations to ensure that the final legislation balances national security and financial accountability with constitutional rights, humanitarian concerns, and the legitimate activities of civil society.
“The proposed FCRA Bill, 2026 should not be taken up until all stakeholders and political parties are given an opportunity for wide consultation in the greater interest of the country,” Jamir said in his letter.
