Church leaders in Meghalaya and Mizoram have stepped up opposition to provisions of the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, urging the Centre to hold meaningful consultations with stakeholders and provide safeguards for religious, charitable and minority institutions.
The main concern centres on provisions that could allow the provisional vesting of foreign contributions and assets in a designated authority following cancellation or cessation of an FCRA certificate. Church leaders have demanded judicial oversight and legal safeguards, besides protection for minority institutions and properties in Sixth Schedule areas.
Meghalaya church leader Rev. Amminot T. Sohliya said a delegation led by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma had met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on July 5 and submitted a memorandum seeking amendments. Shah had assured the delegation that stakeholders would be consulted.
Cabinet Minister Lahkmen Rymbui also called for changes, saying excessive powers to seize property over procedural lapses could adversely affect genuine organisations. He suggested monetary penalties for minor violations instead of property seizure.
Meanwhile, the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee accused the ruling NPP of remaining silent because of its alliance with the BJP-led NDA. The Congress has announced a peaceful rally in Shillong on Monday, beginning at Fire Brigade Ground and ending at Don Bosco Square.
In Mizoram, Chief Minister Lalduhoma met Shah in New Delhi and submitted a joint memorandum on behalf of the state government, the Mizoram Kohhran Hruaitute Committee and the Council of Churches in Mizoram. Lalduhoma said Shah assured him that the proposed provisions would not be applied retrospectively. Church bodies in Mizoram have also announced a peaceful protest march on August 11.
The debate has also prompted calls for greater engagement in Nagaland, where churches play a major role in education, healthcare, disaster relief and community development. The Nagaland Baptist Church Council has been urged to facilitate informed constitutional and public discussion on the proposed legislation.
