Especially the Christian Churches, charities, and institutions, why is the fear so palpable? Let us understand the three main reasons behind this fear. Senior journalist and social activist Mr. Waris Masih will help us understand the reasons behind this fear.
The new FCRA Bill is undeniably harsher than the existing law.
Critics argue that one of the main intentions behind these proposed changes is to give the present regime greater control over minority affairs and their activities.
The Christian community sees the Bill as a threat for three main reasons:
The first, Fear of losing their institutions and property.
If an organisation’s FCRA registration is cancelled, surrendered, expires or is not renewed, the proposed Bill could allow a government-appointed Designated Authority to take control of foreign-funded assets. Christian bodies fear this could affect churches, schools, hospitals, orphanages and hostels built with foreign donations.
https://youtu.be/4tbVbr4fupc?si=GM302Q4mbEOgAtMa
Second, Concern over excessive government discretion
The Central Government already strictly controls FCRA registration and renewal. Christian organisations argue that the new bill is a ploy that gives the executive too much power, particularly without sufficient strong safeguards, independent oversight or a clear hearing process.
Third and the most important: Fear of selective targeting and restrictions on minority work.
Many Christian organisations conduct charitable, educational and healthcare activities using foreign contributions. They fear that stricter scrutiny—especially allegations that welfare work may be linked to religious conversion—could be used selectively against Christian groups and interfere with their constitutional rights to manage religious and minority institutions. Or the same pretext could be used to cancel their FCRA or its renewal to help the government take over their properties.
In short: Christian groups see the Bill as a possible threat to their property, autonomy and charitable work; The opposition is therefore less about regulation of donations and more about the proposed power to control or take over assets after FCRA registration is lost. With the FCRA of several Christian organisations already being cancelled or renewal refused, the fear is not without reason.
