The United Christian Forum (UCF) urged members of Parliament (MPs) from Northeast India to intervene in the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, and to ask the government to stop passing such a “draconian” law that would block natural justice to its law-abiding citizens. In a representation to all MPs of the region, UCF spokesperson for the Northeast Toko Teki said, “As you are aware, India has a long and proud tradition of voluntary and faith-based service. Across religions and regions, charitable institutions have complemented the state in reaching the poorest, educating children, healing the sick, sheltering homeless, and restoring dignity to the marginalised.
The proposed amendment, while intended to strengthen regulatory oversight, raises serious concerns about constitutional balance, civil society freedom, and the future of charitable service in India,” he said. Teki urged the parliamentarians to seek referral of the bill to a parliamentary standing committee for wider consultation, and to ensure that administrative lapses do not lead to disproportionate penalties such as asset seizure. He advocated introducing clear safeguards to uphold due process and judicial oversight, protect the autonomy of charitable, educational, and faith-based institutions, and promote a regulatory framework based on transparency, proportionality, and trust.
Furthermore, the establishment of an independent appellate authority is essential to ensure impartial adjudication and effective redressal of grievances. “India’s strength lies in its pluralism, compassion, and spirit of service. Legislative measures governing charitable activities must safeguard these values and enable, rather than hinder, the vital contribution of civil society,” Teki said.
The forum’s appeal to Northeast MPs highlights the need for careful consideration and scrutiny of the bill to ensure that it does not inadvertently harm the very institutions it seeks to regulate.
