CBCI Raises Alarm Over Asset Seizure and Executive Overreach in Proposed FCRA Bill

New Delhi, March 28, 2026: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed serious concern over the newly introduced Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Bill, 2026, warning that its provisions could threaten the functioning of minority institutions and civil society organisations reliant on foreign funding.

In a statement released on Saturday, the CBCI objected to what it described as “alarming provisions” in the proposed legislation. The body cautioned that the Bill grants the Central Government sweeping powers to deny licence renewals and assume control over the institutions, funds, properties, and assets of NGOs and minority organisations.

According to the CBCI, allowing authorities to take over foreign funds and assets in cases of cancellation, surrender, expiry, or even delays in renewal of FCRA registration is “undemocratic, unconstitutional, and contrary to the principles of natural justice.”

The bishops further warned that the proposed measures provide excessive discretionary powers to authorities, increasing the risk of arbitrary decisions and misuse. They noted that such provisions could amount to executive overreach, undermining constitutionally guaranteed freedoms and weakening democratic accountability.

Highlighting the potential impact, the CBCI said the Bill could adversely affect organisations engaged in essential social, educational, and charitable work across the country.

The organisation has urged the Government of India to reconsider the contentious provisions in the amendment Bill. It specifically called for the establishment of an independent appellate authority and the removal of clauses that enable the takeover of assets.

Emphasising the need to safeguard rights, the CBCI stressed that any legislative framework must protect the fundamental freedoms of citizens, particularly those belonging to minority communities.

The appeal comes amid growing debate over regulatory controls on foreign-funded organisations in India.

CBCI Raises Alarm Over Asset Seizure and Executive Overreach in Proposed FCRA Bill

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