On Sunday, India's Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, clarified misconceptions surrounding the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, in Washington. Kwatra issued a detailed "Myth vs. Reality check" to address concerns about the legislation. He stated that the bill aims to strengthen oversight of foreign funding without hindering lawful civil society activities. The ambassador emphasized that the regulation of foreign financial flows is a sovereign measure driven by national security concerns, a common practice in modern democracies. Kwatra highlighted that the law does not prohibit Indians from receiving foreign donations and that tens of thousands of associations are registered under FCRA, receiving foreign funds for various purposes. India first enacted FCRA in 1976, which was replaced in 2010 and strengthened through amendments in 2016, 2018, and 2020. The 2026 Bill and Rules aim to increase transparency, governance, and clarity. Kwatra also addressed concerns about the impact of FCRA on NGOs and charitable organizations, stating that foreign contributions received by registered organizations have risen from $1.2 billion in 2010-11 to $2.67 billion in 2024-25. He emphasized that FCRA does not stop anyone from accepting foreign charity, research grants, or humanitarian aid, but rather requires registration, proper receipt of funds, and reporting. The ambassador also addressed concerns about asset seizure, stating that a designated authority will safeguard assets and provide a way for organizations to restore their registration and recover assets. Places of worship will have separate protection, with property transferred to another FCRA-registered association of the same faith to ensure continuity of worship. Kwatra rejected allegations that the law targets a specific religion or community, stating that the Act applies uniformly to all organizations regardless of religion or community.
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📰 Source: Mangalorean News