26/03/2026
Centre to amend the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act
Designated authority to manage, dispose assets created out of foreign funds; key functionaries of NGOs to be liable for offences under the FCRA
The Union government is likely to amend the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act in the ongoing session of Parliament session. One of the key changes proposed is the appointment of a “designated authority” to take over, manage or dispose of assets created out of foreign funds by an NGO or association, which has had its FCRA registration suspended, cancelled, or not renewed
Another proposed amendment is expanding the definition of “key functionary” of an NGO beyond an “office bearer/director” to include directors; partners; trustees; the karta (head) of a Hindu Undivided Family; office‑bearers or members of the governing body or managing committee of a society, trust, trade union or association; and any other person who has control over or responsibility for the management or affairs of such an organisation.
The amendment also proposes to make key functionaries liable for offences under the FCRA, unless they can provide evidence of lack of knowledge, or due diligence.
Registration under the FCRA is mandatory for a non-government organisation to receive foreign funds. Till now, the 2010 parent Act only had the provision to regulate the flow of foreign funds, and not the statutory framework to manage the assets created out of such funds.
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 also proposes to amend Section 43 of the parent Act, which will require any law enforcement agency or State government to seek prior approval of the Central government for initiation of investigation into FCRA-related complaints.
The Statement of Objects and Reasons of the Bill circulated among members of Lok Sabha by Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that, at present, approximately 16,000 associations are registered under the FCRA and they receive around ₹22,000 crore annually.
(Copies from thehindu news)
