DMK MP raises concerns over amendments to FCRA

DMK MP P. Wilson speaking at a consultation meeting organised by the National Alliance of Civil Society Organisations (NACSO), in Vijayawada on Sunday. | Photo Credit: BY ARRANGEMENT Rajya Sabha member from DMK, P. Wilson, has raised concerns over the amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) introduced on March 25, 2026, claiming that the proposed changes could have significant implications for voluntary organisations and the communities they serve.Speaking at a consultation meeting organised by the National Alliance of Civil Society Organisations (NACSO) in Vijayawada on Sunday, Mr. Wilson said the proposed amendments included provisions under which the assets of an organisation could vest with the government if its FCRA registration or certificate was cancelled. He claimed that such assets could either be auctioned or transferred to a Union or State government department.Mr. Wilson also expressed concern about organisations whose FCRA registrations expire due to delays in renewal. He questioned whether the assets accumulated legally over several decades could come under government control following cancellation or non-renewal of registration.“Even if there is a minor violation, how can action be taken against the entire assets of an organisation?” he enquired, questioning the provision for cancellation of an organisation’s registration over alleged violations in individual transactions.He said many voluntary organisations operate hospitals, schools, colleges, old-age homes, hostels and orphanages using foreign contributions, and warned that cancellation of their registrations could affect these institutions and their employees. He also highlighted the possible impact on educational and healthcare services in tribal and remote areas.Mr. Wilson said the DMK had written to the Prime Minister opposing the proposed amendments and seeking their withdrawal, while calling for wider public discussion on the issue.Meeting organiser Aadikirana said the amendments could force some old-age homes and educational institutions to close and alleged that Christian organisations involved in social services could be particularly affected.The meeting was chaired by Dalit Bahujan Front founder Korivi Vinay Kumar, who announced plans to form a joint action forum comprising representatives from organisations across the country. A campaign seeking withdrawal of the proposed changes was also proposed, and the meeting adopted a resolution outlining the future course of action.Several voluntary organisation representatives and leaders, including Ambati Ramakrishna, A. Purnachandra Rao, Samuel Jonathan, Pratap Sinha, T. Vijay Kumar and Melam Bhagya Rao and others attended the meeting. Published - September 27, 2026 08:51 pm IST