Shillong, July 5: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, led by a church delegation and community leaders, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi and raised state’s concerns on Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
During the meeting, the delegation apprised Shah of the concerns of the state regarding certain provisions of the FCRA, including the proposed amendments to the law, and their bearing on the functioning of religious, educational, charitable and social welfare institutions in Meghalaya. These institutions run a large number of schools, colleges, hospitals and community service programmes that serve people across the state, particularly in rural and remote areas.
The chief minister highlighted the significant role these institutions play in the social and educational life of the state, and urged the Centre to take into account the unique circumstances of Meghalaya while addressing matters relating to the FCRA. He sought the consideration of the Centre in ensuring that genuine institutions engaged in public service are able to continue their work without disruption.
The delegation comprised senior representatives of the Presbyterian Church of India (PCI), the North East India Christian Council (NEICC), the Catholic Church (Archdiocese of Shillong) and the Garo Baptist Convention. It included Rev. H. L. Myrsing, Moderator, PCI; Rev. S. C. Diengngan, Chairman, FCRA Sub-Committee, PCI; Rev. Dr. Meyu Changkiri, General Secretary, NEICC; Fr. Teiboklang Kharbani, Administrator, Archdiocese of Shillong; and Durasal R. Marak, Youth Director, Garo Baptist Convention, among others.
