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Tezzbuzz Desk- The proposed bill to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) has intensified the buzz from Parliament to political circles. Ahead of the possible discussion on the bill, Union Home Minister Amit Shah met with various delegations. These included Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, along with representatives of the Christian community and a delegation of bishops and priests. During the meetings, concerns and suggestions regarding some provisions of the proposed bill were put before the Home Minister.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma met Amit Shah along with senior representatives of the Christian community. The delegation also included Rev. John Raldosanga, president of the Mizoram Kohran Hmanawtute Committee (MKHC), and Rev. Lalhmhmangaiha, general secretary of the Council of Churches in Mizoram (CCM).

Demand for change in stringent provisions

During the meeting, the delegation expressed concerns about some provisions of the proposed FCRA bill and demanded changes. Following the meeting, Chief Minister Lalduhoma stated that the bill is likely to be introduced in Parliament on August 12th. He also stated that Home Minister Amit Shah had assured the delegation that the new law would not be implemented retrospectively. This means that it will not apply to cases that occurred before the new provisions came into force.

Subsequently, another delegation of 10 bishops and priests from the Christian community met with the Union Home Minister. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan was also present at the meeting. According to sources, during the meeting, the representatives detailed their objections and suggestions regarding the bill.

The government assured to discuss the concerns

It was reported that the Home Minister listened to the delegation and assured them that he would discuss the issues raised with the relevant members of the government. The government is trying to allay concerns from various parties regarding the bill.

However, government sources have cited parliamentary procedure regarding whether the bill will be introduced for discussion and passage in Parliament on August 12. According to sources, the decision on when a bill should be listed for discussion and passage is made through a process between the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Business Advisory Committee (BAC).

Amit Shah will answer questions in the House

The government has stated that it is prepared to answer questions raised regarding the FCRA bill. If the bill is debated in Parliament, Home Minister Amit Shah may provide a detailed response representing the government in the House.

According to government sources, the structure of the proposed law is largely based on the basic provisions of the FCRA law introduced during the tenure of the then-UPA government in 2010. The government says that many misconceptions are being spread about the bill.

Denial of allegations of targeting any community

Government sources have also dismissed concerns that the proposed provisions of the FCRA will target any particular community. The government claims that Christian organizations receive approximately 30 percent of all foreign donations coming into the country. Therefore, the claim of targeting any particular community is not accurate.

According to the government, no new amendments have been proposed to the original draft of the FCRA Bill at this time. The process of listing the bill for discussion and passage in Parliament is underway. Meanwhile, the government’s discussions with various stakeholders have further intensified political and social discussion on the issue.