Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday vehemently rejected claims by opposition parties, including the Congress and Left, that the proposed amendment to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) is intended to target religious organisations. Rijiju stated that the bill’s sole purpose is to prevent foreign funding from being used against India’s national security and interests.
Minister Denies Targeting Religious Groups
Addressing reporters at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Rijiju described the opposition’s assertions as “completely false, fabricated and misleading.” He specifically refuted rumours, particularly attributed to the Communist Party and Congress in Kerala, suggesting the amendment would curb the activities of various religious bodies. The Minority Affairs Minister clarified that the legislation aims to regulate foreign funding and prevent its misuse in illegal activities.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25. The government had previously indicated that individuals involved in forced religious conversion using foreign funds would face consequences. Union Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai, when introducing the bill in 2026, had stated that the legislation seeks to enhance transparency and ensure proper utilisation of overseas funds.
Focus on National Security and Interest
Rijiju emphasised that the amendments are crucial for national security and the nation’s interest. He stated, “Money illegally comes and (is) used against national security. So for national security and in the national interest, the proposed amendments have been brought.” He reiterated that the bill is not aimed against any religious group and urged opposition parties to cease spreading such misinformation.
The Minister accused the Left and Congress parties of disseminating falsehoods regarding the proposed amendments. He suggested this tactic was driven by a perceived fear of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) gaining significant support from the people of Kerala in the lead-up to the state assembly elections. “I strongly reject the rumours being spread by the Congress and Communist parties, especially in Kerala. Congress and communists are spreading lies,” Rijiju asserted.
The proposed changes to the FCRA are intended to streamline the process of receiving and utilising foreign contributions, with a strong emphasis on preventing funds from being channelled into activities detrimental to India’s sovereignty and security. The government maintains that the amendment is a necessary step to ensure greater accountability and transparency in foreign funding received by various entities within the country.
The Chenab Times News Desk