Several Christian institutions at risk, Stalin says FCRA Bill targets minorities

Chennai,UPDATED: Apr 4, 2026 23:45 IST

DMK Chief Minister M K Stalin on Saturday alleged that the Union government’s recently introduced Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill, 2026, targets Christian institutions and minority-run charitable organisations across India.

Speaking to reporters, Stalin stated that the amendment specifically affects minority groups, particularly Christian charitable organisations. He condemned the bill and demanded its complete withdrawal, adding that he had written a detailed letter to the Prime Minister on behalf of the state government.

The Chief Minister expressed concern that the amendment could result in the cancellation of registrations and seizure of assets of organisations over minor issues like delays in certificate submissions. He noted that these assets include hospitals, schools, and hostels serving the public, with even those funded equally by foreign and domestic sources at risk.

DMK Rajya Sabha MP P Wilson criticised the bill, saying its timing during Easter caused distress among Christians nationwide. He claimed the Centre had no clear national security interest in targeting minority properties and accused it of aiming to target Christian missionaries, NGOs, and churches. Wilson described the retrospective divesting of properties as draconian.

Wilson further stated that since 2014, the BJP-led government had reduced funding for Christian missions and churches, cancelled over 20,000 charitable institution licences, including 2,500 Christian institutions in 2020, and previously targeted Muslim Waqf properties. He argued that unlike land acquisition laws, the amendment permits instant confiscation of vital assets such as schools, colleges, hospitals, and orphanages, depriving the poor of essential services.

The FCRA Amendment Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25 by Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai. The Centre describes the bill as a measure to improve transparency, ensure proper use of foreign funds, and prevent misuse affecting national security.

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