FCRA Bill: MEA Says Legislative Matters Are Internal Affairs

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday responded to concerns raised by international stakeholders over the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill, 2026, stating that legislative matters concerning India are internal affairs. The response came during the bi-weekly press briefing in New Delhi.

“We have seen the comments. Legislative matters concerning India are our internal affairs to be decided by our Parliament. May I point out that several nations, including the U.S., regulate the flow of foreign funds,” said Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson of the MEA.

While Mr. Jaiswal did not name any specific individual, his remarks were widely seen as a response to criticism from U.S. Congressman Riley M. Moore. On August 4, Mr. Moore described the proposed amendments as a “clear attack against Christians” and warned that the Bill could affect bilateral relations with India.

The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, seeks to amend the existing FCRA law, which regulates the acceptance and utilisation of foreign funds by individuals and organisations in India. The Bill is expected to be taken up for consideration in Parliament next week. According to official sources, Home Minister Amit Shah has held a series of consultations with Christian leaders and religious organisations regarding the proposed amendments.

The MEA’s statement underscores the government’s position that foreign funding regulations are a matter of national sovereignty. Similar laws exist in several countries, including the United States, where the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) imposes strict disclosure requirements on entities representing foreign interests.

The Bill has drawn attention both domestically and internationally, with stakeholders raising questions about its potential impact on civil society groups and religious organisations. However, the government has maintained that the amendments aim to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the use of foreign contributions.

Observers note that the consultations with Christian leaders reflect an effort to address concerns ahead of the Bill’s introduction in Parliament. The outcome of these discussions, along with the parliamentary debate, will determine the final shape of the legislation.