Shillong, Aug 10: The state Congress staged a protest on Monday (Aug 10) against Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) amendment by holding a peaceful march from Fire Brigade to Donbosco Square.
Protesters raised slogans of “BJP down down”, “Resign Modi”, “Resign Amit Shah” and “We demand justice”.
Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee president Vincent Pala led the protest.
Congress demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, or FCRA.
The venue was chosen as Laitumkhrah is home to several church-run institutions, including St Anthony’s and St Edmund’s, that rely on FCRA funding.
Pala addressed the gathering and accused the BJP of trying to bulldoze the Bill through Parliament this week.
“The BJP has issued a whip. They are likely to bring the FCRA Bill today, tomorrow, or the day after. Parliament is scheduled to discuss it on August 13, but they will try to force it through before that,” he said.
According to Pala, the rally is in response to what he termed as “first attack after Independence” on churches, schools and NGOs that receive foreign contributions.
“This rally is about people, not politics. These institutions are not against the Government of India. They are here to work with the government,” Pala said.
He described amendment as one of the most dangerous Bills in the history of India.
Pala referred to clause 16(a) and said, “If you cannot renew your FCRA, or if you surrender it, the government can take over your property. Even if a church or school receives a small percentage of foreign funding, the entire property can be attached”.
Pala said the Congress is not opposed to regulation, but to blanket punishment.
“We have no problem with FCRA as long as it is used for the right purpose. We welcome transparency and accountability. But punish those who misuse funds, not everyone,” he said.
He warned that the changes would hit Meghalaya hardest.
“Look at St Anthony’s, St Edmund’s and so many other schools across the state that depend on FCRA. If licenses are not renewed and these institutions shut down, our children will suffer. Through FCRA we don’t get buildings. We get education, hospitals, and support for the poor. Cut off that help and unemployment and hardship will only grow.This is not about party interest.The Congress is fighting for the future of our children, he said.
Stressing the need for unity, he said, “India will be strong only when all Indians — minorities, churches, NGOs — work together. Crushing the sentiments of Christians, Hindus, Sikhs will not help India” he said.
“Wherever we go, we will protect the people,” Pala said.
He urged supporters to keep them in their prayers so that victory can be achieved.
