Shillong/Guwahati, April 7, 2026: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) in Meghalaya has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to adopt a “balanced approach” while considering the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), particularly provisions that could allow government takeover of assets of organisations whose registrations are cancelled or cease to be valid.
In a formal representation submitted to the Prime Minister on April 6, 2026, VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit acknowledged the Centre’s intent to enhance transparency, accountability, and safeguards against misuse of foreign funds for reasons of national security. However, he expressed deep concern over certain clauses in the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, which introduce a “designated authority” empowered to manage, supervise, or dispose of assets created from foreign contributions.
The party highlighted that sweeping powers to take over assets raise serious questions regarding property rights, institutional autonomy, proportionality, due process, and the potential for misuse. Many organisations in Meghalaya, including long-established Christian and minority institutions, have been functioning lawfully for decades and play a vital role in providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and rural development in remote and vulnerable areas.
“Any uncertainty over ownership or management of these institutions could disrupt vital services and negatively affect the livelihoods of many beneficiaries who depend on them,” the letter stated. The VPP warned that without adequate safeguards, the amendments could lead to unintended consequences beyond their stated objectives.
Call for Wider Consultations
The VPP urged the Centre to reconsider the asset takeover provisions and ensure that any regulatory action is guided by principles of natural justice, transparency, and due process. It also called for broader consultations with all stakeholders — including civil society organisations, minority groups, and representatives from the North Eastern states — before finalising the amendments.
“We believe a balanced approach is possible — one that safeguards national interests while protecting the invaluable contributions of civil society to nation-building,” Basaiawmoit said.
Background on the FCRA Amendment Bill
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25, 2026. It seeks to strengthen oversight of foreign funding by introducing a comprehensive framework for the vesting and management of assets through a designated authority appointed by the Centre. This includes provisions for provisional and permanent vesting of foreign contributions and related assets in cases of cancellation, surrender, or cessation of registration. The Bill also aims to rationalise penalties, clarify rules on suspension and cessation, and require prior central approval for certain investigations.
While the government maintains that the changes will enhance regulatory clarity and prevent misuse, critics have raised concerns about increased central control over NGO operations and assets.
Notably, even a BJP legislator from Meghalaya, A.L. Hek, recently wrote to the Prime Minister expressing similar apprehensions and seeking a consultative review to balance accountability with the operational autonomy and contributions of non-profits, including churches and NGOs in the state.
The debate on the Bill in Parliament was reportedly deferred earlier amid concerns from various quarters.
As the Bill progresses, stakeholders in Meghalaya and the Northeast hope that the Centre will take into account the unique socio-economic role played by civil society organisations in the region and incorporate necessary safeguards to prevent disruption of essential services. The Centre is yet to respond publicly to the VPP’s representation.
About The Author
