Tamil Nadu Assembly Urges Centre to Withdraw FCRA Amendment Bill

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution calling on the Union Government to withdraw the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. The decision was made during proceedings in Chennai on August 11, 2026.

What Happened

Lawmakers expressed deep concern regarding provisions within the bill that would allow the government to take control of assets belonging to charitable organizations. These provisions apply in cases of expired or unrenewed FCRA registration, cancellation, or surrender of registration. The resolution stated that such measures could negatively impact the autonomy of charitable groups, with a particular focus on educational and social welfare institutions operated by minority communities.

Key Facts

• The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed a resolution on August 11, 2026.
• The resolution urges the Union Government to withdraw the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.
• Concerns were raised about provisions related to the government taking over assets of charitable organizations.
• These provisions were cited as potentially affecting the autonomy of minority-run educational and social welfare institutions.
• A BJP member defended the bill, stating it was needed to prevent foreign funds from being used for anti-national activities.

Background

The resolution advocates for comprehensive consultations with all stakeholders, including state governments and various types of charitable organizations, before any amendments are made. It emphasizes that any legislative changes must uphold principles of natural justice, proportionality, property rights, legitimate expectation, and federalism. While aiming for transparency and accountability in foreign contributions, the amendments should also safeguard the rights of lawfully operating charitable, educational, medical, religious, cultural, and social welfare organizations.