FCRA Amendment Bill Faces Delays Amid Opposition Concerns

The FCRA Amendment Bill, aimed at tightening oversight of foreign-funded organizations, is unlikely to be discussed in the Lok Sabha amid opposition concerns. The bill, proposing a new authority to manage assets of non-profits with revoked licenses, faces resistance primarily from Kerala representatives.

The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) Amendment Bill is facing delays in the Lok Sabha during the ongoing Budget session as opposition parties express concerns over its provisions. Sources indicate that the bill will not be discussed in the currently scheduled sessions.

Despite being listed for consideration, opposition members, particularly from Kerala, disrupted proceedings with slogans opposing the bill's provisions shortly after the Question Hour commenced. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized the bill's role in protecting national security without targeting any specific religion or organization.

Minister Rijiju accused opposition parties, particularly Congress and the Left, of misleading Kerala's public, especially with state assembly elections looming. The proposed legislation seeks to enhance oversight on foreign-funded entities by establishing a new authority to oversee and manage non-profit assets. Current provisions are seen as inadequate, requiring amendments to fill operational gaps.

(With inputs from agencies.)