The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has urged the Central Government to withdraw the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), saying the changes could negatively affect charitable and humanitarian organisations across the country.
In a memorandum submitted to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the bishops said the Catholic Church has served India for centuries through schools, hospitals, social service institutions, disaster relief, rural development, and tribal welfare programmes without discrimination. While supporting transparency and accountability, the CBCI said the proposed amendments could weaken the work of organisations serving poor and vulnerable communities.
The bishops requested that the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill and Rules be withdrawn. They also suggested that any future changes should include constitutional safeguards, fair legal procedures, and protection for charitable institutions. The memorandum also recommended removing the term “proselytization” from the proposed Rules and ensuring that only trustees and governing body members are treated as key functionaries under the law.
The CBCI also raised concerns about religious freedom, saying anti-conversion laws in some states have increased fear and hostility toward Christians. It urged the government to help ensure an early hearing of cases related to these laws and the constitutional status of Dalit Christians before the Supreme Court.
The bishops also expressed deep concern over the continuing violence in Manipur, describing it as a serious humanitarian crisis. They said thousands of families remain displaced, education has been disrupted, and many people continue to suffer emotionally and financially. The CBCI appealed to the Government to restore peace in Manipur and reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to national unity, communal harmony, humanitarian service, and the constitutional values of India.
