The proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) have stirred a political debate in Kerala before the Assembly elections. Church leaders and the Congress have raised objections, with concerns about potential constraints on institutions engaged in education, healthcare, and charity. The Orthodox Church’s Baselios Marthoma Mathews III Catholicos criticized the amendments, warning of potential disruptions to church activities.
Stressing that the Church adheres to the law, the Catholicos expressed worries about the impact on minority communities. He questioned the government’s approach towards minorities and highlighted concerns over blocked church accounts without clear explanations. Despite efforts to address the issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, no resolution has been reached, leading to calls for a review or withdrawal of the amendments.
Leaders from various Christian denominations, including the Syro-Malabar Church, echoed similar apprehensions. They cautioned that the proposed provisions, particularly those related to asset takeovers, could undermine charitable institutions built over decades with foreign assistance. The Congress also criticized the amendments, alleging a larger conspiracy to restrict voluntary activities by minority groups.
Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal accused the BJP of attempting to control Christian institutions through the amendments. He criticized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for not taking a clear stance on the issue, accusing him of weakening opposition unity. Venugopal rejected the government’s argument of preventing forced conversions, warning of potential misuse of provisions allowing takeover of organizations receiving foreign funding.
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the amendments, emphasizing their aim to prevent misuse of foreign funds and ensure national security. He dismissed claims that the amendments target specific religious groups, stating that transparency in foreign funding is crucial. As the FCRA controversy becomes a significant election issue in Kerala, political divisions deepen, involving influential religious figures, while the Centre maintains the regulatory nature of the amendments.
