File image of Nagaland CM Rio with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. (Photo:X)
Kohima, Aug 11: Following Mizoram’s request for the Centre to send the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), Nagaland has echoed this sentiment.
Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to reassess the amendments, expressing concerns that they could impose additional burdens on churches and Christian charitable organizations, potentially impacting education, healthcare, and social welfare initiatives throughout the state.
Rio suggested that the amendments to the FCRA be reviewed by a parliamentary committee, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions. He believes this approach would address legitimate concerns, alleviate fears, and foster public trust while ensuring transparency, accountability, and national interests are upheld.
In his letter to Shah, Rio emphasized that this action would reflect the NDA government’s “inclusive and positive approach” and reaffirm India’s dedication to constitutional principles, secular values, and respect for the rights and contributions of all communities.
He noted that various segments of society, especially the Christian community, have raised alarms regarding the proposed changes to the legislation.
Representations from the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) and the Bishop of Kohima have also been submitted to the Union Home Minister, detailing the challenges faced by churches and their charitable entities.
Rio urged that these representations be treated with the necessary sensitivity, considering Nagaland’s distinct social, historical, and developmental context.
Highlighting that over 90% of Nagaland’s population identifies as Christian, Rio pointed out that churches have historically been integral to the state’s spiritual and community life, contributing significantly to education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, social welfare, and support for marginalized groups.
He expressed concern that smaller grassroots organizations with limited resources might be disproportionately affected while serving remote and underserved populations.
Additionally, the Chief Minister raised alarms regarding reports that some Christian organizations had their FCRA renewal applications rejected due to allegations of using foreign funds for religious conversions.