New Delhi, July 10: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has submitted a memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging the Government to reconsider the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, and the recently notified FCRA Rules. The memorandum also appealed for immediate steps to restore peace in Manipur and sought protection of constitutional rights relating to religious freedom and Scheduled Caste Christians.
The memorandum was signed by CBCI President Cardinal Anthony Poola and CBCI Secretary General Archbishop Anil Couto. The delegation that met the Home Minister included CBCI Deputy Secretary Fr. Mathew Koyilckal, Catholic Council of India Vice President Antos Antony, and Mr. Jonathan, who coordinated the meeting.
The CBCI reaffirmed the Catholic Church's commitment to serving the nation through education, healthcare, disaster relief, tribal welfare, rural development, and humanitarian service. It said these services are provided to all without discrimination based on religion, caste, language, or region.
FCRA Amendments
The CBCI expressed serious concern over the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). It said some of the proposed provisions could adversely affect charitable institutions that have served poor and vulnerable communities for decades.
The Conference requested the Government to withdraw both the proposed Amendment Bill and the recently notified Rules and to prepare a revised draft after wider consultation with stakeholders.
The memorandum said any changes to the law should apply only in the future and should not affect existing rights, legally acquired assets, or ongoing charitable work. It called for independent judicial oversight in FCRA cases and safeguards before the Government can take over or transfer the assets of an institution.
The CBCI also urged the Government to distinguish between minor procedural lapses and serious offences. It said charitable assets should continue to be used according to the wishes of donors. It recommended removing the undefined term "proselytization" from the Rules to prevent misuse and said the term "key functionary" should apply only to trustees or members of an organisation's governing body.
The Conference said these safeguards would strengthen transparency and accountability while protecting genuine charitable organisations that contribute to nation-building and serve the poor and marginalised.
Appeal for Peace in Manipur
The memorandum also highlighted the continuing humanitarian crisis in Manipur. It described the violence and displacement as one of the country's most serious humanitarian challenges.
The CBCI said thousands of farming families have lost their livelihoods. Many children have faced disruption to their education, and several families have moved to other parts of the country in search of safety, education, and employment.
The Conference appealed to the Ministry of Home Affairs to take urgent steps to restore lasting peace, communal harmony, and normalcy in the State. It also reaffirmed the Church's readiness to work with the Government in promoting reconciliation, humanitarian relief, and social healing.
Constitutional Rights
The memorandum also raised concerns over State Freedom of Religion Acts and the continued denial of Scheduled Caste status to Christians and other religious minorities of Scheduled Caste origin under the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950.
Noting that these matters are pending before the Supreme Court, the CBCI appealed for their early hearing and final adjudication. It said the prolonged delay continues to affect the dignity, equality, and constitutional rights of millions of citizens while creating uncertainty among minority communities.
Concluding the memorandum, the CBCI reaffirmed the Catholic Church's commitment to the unity, integrity, and constitutional values of India. It pledged continued cooperation with the Government in nation-building and reiterated its readiness to work together in promoting peace, justice, humanitarian service, and the common good.