The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, has given organisations consulted in Meghalaya 15 days to submit responses to questions raised by the panel. The committee held a consultation in Shillong, where it heard nearly 40 organisations from Meghalaya and representatives from Nagaland, Manipur and Assam.
Religious institutions, NGOs and organisations working for persons with disabilities participated in the discussions. The panel sought additional information on the proposed amendments and will examine written submissions before finalising its recommendations. The committee clarified that it has not yet reached a consensus on the proposed changes.
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Key Facts About the FCRA Amendment Bill 2026
- Location: Shillong, Meghalaya.
- Committee: Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).
- Legislation: Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.
- Response deadline: 15 days.
- Organisations consulted: Nearly 40 from Meghalaya, along with representatives from other Northeastern states.
- JPC member: BJP MP Dr Sanjay Jaiswal.
- Annual foreign contributions: Approximately ₹22,000 crore, according to Jaiswal.
- Nationwide consultation target: Around 84 organisations.
JPC Seeks Additional Responses from Meghalaya Organisations
During the Shillong consultation, the parliamentary panel heard views from religious institutions, NGOs and organisations representing persons with disabilities.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, JPC member and BJP MP Dr Sanjay Jaiswal said the committee had requested additional information from participating organisations.
He said the organisations would have 15 days to respond to the questions. The committee will examine their written submissions before moving forward with further discussions.
Jaiswal also clarified that the panel had not reached a final agreement on the proposed amendments. Instead, members will collectively prepare recommendations after completing consultations with stakeholders across the country.
Religious Institutions Raise Concerns Over Proposed FCRA Changes
One of the major issues discussed during the consultation involved the potential impact of the proposed legislation on religious institutions.
Jaiswal said the amendments would ensure that places of worship, including temples, churches and mosques, could continue functioning without interference.
He also cited figures suggesting that religious organisations receive around 6% of foreign contributions, while NGOs and other organisations account for the remaining 94%.
However, the committee will consider the concerns and suggestions raised by participating organisations before finalising its recommendations.
Disability Organisations Flag Registration Concerns
Organisations working for persons with disabilities also raised concerns about the proposed registration and re-registration procedures.
According to Jaiswal, the committee has taken note of their suggestions and will consider these inputs during the drafting process.
The consultation aimed to gather feedback from different sectors that could be affected by the proposed changes.
JPC Explains Proposed Banking Arrangements
The proposed amendments also include arrangements for monitoring foreign contributions through a designated banking channel.
Jaiswal said foreign contributions would initially be routed through a designated State Bank of India account in New Delhi to facilitate monitoring of the source of funds.
Afterward, organisations would be able to transfer the money to their accounts with any bank across India.
He also stated that India receives approximately ₹22,000 crore in foreign contributions annually.
JPC Plans Consultations Across India
The committee expects to consult around 84 organisations nationwide, including more than 40 organisations from Northeast India.
Apart from Shillong, the JPC will undertake study visits to Kochi and Chennai as part of its nationwide consultation exercise.
Jaiswal also pointed out that the existing legal framework bars political parties, judges and journalists from receiving foreign contributions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the FCRA Amendment Bill 2026?
It is proposed legislation seeking amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act framework governing foreign contributions in India.
2. How much time has the JPC given organisations in Meghalaya?
The committee has given participating organisations 15 days to respond to its questions.
3. Where was the consultation held?
The consultation took place in Shillong, Meghalaya.
4. How many organisations will the JPC consult nationwide?
The committee expects to consult approximately 84 organisations, including more than 40 from Northeast India.
5. Has the JPC finalised its recommendations?
No. The committee has not reached a consensus and will finalise its recommendations after completing consultations.
Importance for Meghalaya and Northeast India
Shillong’s consultation highlights the importance of including Northeastern stakeholders in national legislative discussions. Religious institutions, NGOs and social organisations across Meghalaya and neighbouring states depend on clear regulatory procedures. Their feedback could help the parliamentary committee understand regional concerns while examining the proposed FCRA amendments.
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