Secrecy Concerns: Transparency Lapses in FCRA Regulation Unveiled

CPI(M) MP John Brittas raises concerns over government secrecy regarding FCRA regulations on NGOs, claiming transparency is compromised. Despite multiple attempts in the Rajya Sabha, Brittas' inquiries regarding licences and regulatory data went unanswered, sparking debate on transparency ahead of proposed FCRA amendments.

On Wednesday, CPI(M) MP John Brittas criticized the government's secretive handling of NGO regulations under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), emphasizing issues of transparency and parliamentary accountability.

The Left leader revealed that despite posing numerous questions in the Rajya Sabha since 2024 regarding cancellation and suspension of FCRA licenses, he received no responses. These queries were frequently dismissed under the claim of being 'secret in nature'.

As the Parliament debates proposed amendments to the FCRA amidst opposition protests, Brittas' concerns shed light on fundamental issues of governmental transparency and the potential impacts on public charitable entities.

(With inputs from agencies.)