CBCI to Address Concerns Over FCRA Amendment Bill at Press Conference in New Delhi

New Delhi, March 28, 2026: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India has announced a press conference for today to address growing concerns regarding the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Bill, 2026, highlighting its potential impact on minority institutions and charitable organisations across the country.

The briefing will take place at the CBCI Centre in New Delhi and will bring together Church leadership and subject-matter experts to share insights and responses following an internal seminar on the issue. The conference aims to present a considered perspective on the implications of the proposed legislation.

According to the organisers, the Bill introduces stringent compliance requirements and expands regulatory oversight, which could significantly affect organisations dependent on foreign contributions for social, educational, and charitable initiatives. Concerns have also been raised about provisions granting broad discretionary powers to authorities, which may lead to arbitrary suspension of registrations and impact the functioning of human rights and advocacy groups.

The press conference will be addressed by Archbishop Anil J. T. Couto the Secretary General of CBCI and Fr. Mathew Koyickal the Deputy Secretary General of CBCI, who are expected to outline the key issues, share the outcomes of the internal deliberations, and propose constructive responses.

The event is scheduled for 3:00 PM at the Conference Hall, CBCI Centre, Ashok Place, New Delhi. Media organisations have been invited to cover the briefing, with representatives encouraged to attend and engage with the discussions.

Through this initiative, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India seeks to raise awareness on the broader implications of the Bill and contribute to ongoing national conversations on regulatory frameworks, institutional freedom, and the role of civil society in democratic processes.

By Catholic Connect Reporter