Proposed legislation in India could allow government control over religious organizations receiving funding from overseas, sparking international and domestic backlash.
| PULSE POINTS |
❓ WHAT HAPPENED: India’s government is facing criticism over proposed changes to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), with opponents saying they could allow authorities to take control of Christian churches and other religious organizations if their FCRA registrations are canceled. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill would create a “Designated Authority” to manage foreign-funded assets of organizations that lose their registrations, while requiring that any place of worship retain its religious character. 📺 DETAIL: U.S. Republican Congressman Riley Moore (R-WV) called the proposal a “clear attack against Christians,” warning it could become a major issue in U.S.-India relations if enacted. The legislation would also reduce the maximum penalty for FCRA violations from five years in prison to one year. Indian lawmakers rejected Moore’s comments, arguing that the legislation is a domestic matter and criticizing foreign intervention. The Indian government is expected to introduce the amendment in the Lok Sabha (House of the People) next week. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, 13,520 organizations received about $5.8 million in foreign funding between 2019 and 2022, while the FCRA portal lists 14,449 active certificates, 22,498 canceled registrations, and 15,212 expired certificates. India has a history of anti-Christian hatred, with recent reports expressing concern over growing numbers of attacks, which have increased 500 percent over the last decade, combined with a weak response from the majority-Hindu government. 💬 KEY QUOTE: “This is a clear attack against Christians. If this bill proceeds in this way, it would be a point of major concern in our bilateral relationship with India.” – Congressman Riley Moore |
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