New Delhi: The government is likely to initiate discussions on the controversial Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, in Parliament on August 12 and seek its passage in both Houses before the Monsoon Session concludes on August 13.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju have been reaching out to Opposition leaders, religious groups and representatives from northeastern states to build consensus on key provisions of the proposed legislation.
The Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25, seeks to amend the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, which regulates the acceptance and utilisation of foreign funds by individuals, associations and organisations in India.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, who recently met Shah with a delegation, said the Home Minister assured him that the proposed law would not have retrospective effect. However, concerns remain over provisions relating to foreign-funded organisations whose FCRA registration is cancelled, surrendered or allowed to lapse.
Religious groups have particularly opposed a provision under which a designated authority could take control of foreign funds and assets of organisations in certain circumstances.
The government has maintained that the amendments are intended to address operational gaps, strengthen oversight of foreign contributions and improve the management of assets linked to FCRA-registered organisations.
The proposed legislation has also drawn international attention, with some US lawmakers raising concerns over its potential impact on religious organisations. The government, however, has continued consultations with various stakeholders ahead of the proposed debate in Parliament.
