Nagpur, August 14: The National Council of Churches in India (NCCCI) has expressed its approval of the submission of the FCRA Amendment Bill 2026 to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). Asir Ebenizer, General Secretary of NCCCI, shared his thoughts during an interview with a news agency on Thursday.
Ebenizer emphasized that organizations linked to churches and missions are non-governmental and rooted in faith. These organizations assist the government in achieving specific goals. Our focus areas include health, education, and targeted eradication initiatives. Whenever we receive grants from abroad, we ensure compliance with the conditions related to trust grants. We are committed to adhering to all established regulations and take compliance seriously.
He pointed out that the recent amendments to the FCRA indicate an attempt to penalize our institutions. The manner in which these amendments have been made suggests a rush to implement changes within a week. The new provisions allow for the cancellation of an organization’s registration if any rules are violated. There is no provision for appeal or judicial review in this matter, which raises our concerns. There is no platform for me to represent myself before my license is revoked.
Ebenizer further noted that if any action is taken against him or his organization, all assets would automatically transfer to the visiting authority, which would have the full right to sell those assets. This authority can sell the property or transfer it to the government. We continuously question this process. Our concern is about how funds meant for the community can be redirected to a third party. This money should either go to the community, the donor, or remain within the organization. If a license is revoked, the scope of action should be limited.
He mentioned that attempts are being made to amend the FCRA of 2010. The 2010 FCRA includes provisions for disqualification if an FIR is filed against a trustee. There is no law in this country that disqualifies someone solely based on an FIR. Therefore, we welcome the step of sending the FCRA Amendment Bill to the JPC for a thorough review of all related points.
Ebenizer stated that the government has the authority to investigate any disturbances under the law. If actions are being taken based on foreign grants, they should certainly be scrutinized. The key question is the process being followed for these actions. If someone is involved in such activities, they should be identified and dealt with strictly. However, this should not lead to targeting everyone. It is possible that only a small percentage of individuals are involved in such activities. Those individuals should face action, but not at the expense of the entire community.
He clarified that he does not view this situation as an attempt by the government to suppress minority communities or NGOs. We are working collaboratively with the government. However, there are certain amendments we find relevant. We want regulations to be completely fair and transparent. No one should be coerced. In a free country, everyone has the right to live and work in their own way.
Ebenizer concluded by expressing hope that the amendment bill will be reviewed thoroughly by the JPC. There should be no negligence in this direction. Regulations are crucial for us, and there should be no violations. The entire process should be transparent and independent. If anyone violates these rules, action should be taken only against that individual. Consequently, not all NGOs and faith-based organizations should be targeted.
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