New Delhi, April 8: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, along with Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, on Tuesday met Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju in New Delhi to discuss concerns regarding the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 2010 Amendment Bill.
The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and other stakeholders. The delegation included CBCI President Anthony Cardinal Poola, Secretary General Rev Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, and Vice President Rev Mathew Moolakkat.
During the interaction, the delegation highlighted the crucial role played by educational, healthcare, and social service institutions across Meghalaya and the Northeast, particularly in remote and tribal regions. Many of these institutions, supported through foreign contributions, continue to serve marginalized communities and contribute significantly to regional development.
The delegation raised concerns over certain provisions in the proposed amendments, especially those related to seizure of properties, which have created apprehensions among Christian organisations and other civil society groups. They stressed the need for wider consultation and detailed deliberations to address these concerns effectively.
“We have conveyed the concerns expressed by Christian organisations, particularly regarding provisions related to seizure of properties, and emphasized the need for a balanced and consultative approach,” the Chief Minister said.
Highlighting the broader impact of such institutions, he added that organisations supported through foreign contributions have been playing a transformative role in delivering education, healthcare, and social services in some of the most remote and underserved areas of Meghalaya and the Northeast.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju gave a patient hearing to the issues raised and assured the delegation that the concerns would be carefully examined. He further stated that consultations with stakeholders would be undertaken and necessary discussions held before finalizing any amendments.
“I am encouraged by Minister Kiren Rijiju assurance that wider consultations will be held and that stakeholders’ concerns will be duly examined before any final decision is taken,” the Chief Minister said.
“Our objective is to work constructively with the Government of India to ensure that the law safeguards both national interests and the invaluable contributions of charitable and faith-based institutions,” he added.
The delegation also emphasized the importance of incorporating appropriate safeguards in the legislation to ensure continuity of essential services while maintaining transparency and accountability. It underlined the need to protect the rights and functioning of faith-based and charitable organisations working for community welfare.
Expressing optimism after the meeting, the Chief Minister said, “We remain hopeful that through dialogue and engagement, a solution will emerge that protects the rights of organisations while strengthening regulatory mechanisms.”
