Shillong, April 8: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has called on Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju in Delhi on Wednesday regarding the Foreign Contribution ( Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong accompanied him.
Briefing journalists, Conrad said that the property and rights of the Christian institutes should be protected.
The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and other stakeholders. The delegation comprised President CBCI Cardinal Poola Anthony , Secretary General Fr. Anil Joseph Thomas Couto and Vice President Fr. Mathew Moolakkat.
During the interaction, the delegation highlighted the vital role played by educational, healthcare, and social service institutions across Meghalaya and the Northeast, particularly in remote and tribal regions. Many of these institutions, supported through foreign contributions, continue to serve marginalized communities and contribute significantly to regional development.
The delegation expressed concerns over certain provisions in the proposed amendments, especially those related to seizure of properties, which have raised apprehensions among Christian organisations and other civil society groups. They emphasised the need for wider consultation and detailed deliberations to ensure that such concerns are adequately addressed.
“We have conveyed the concerns expressed by Christian organisations, particularly regarding provisions related to seizure of properties, and emphasised the need for a balanced and consultative approach,” said the chief minister.
Highlighting the broader impact of such institutions, he added, “Institutions supported through foreign contributions have been playing a transformative role in delivering education, healthcare, and social services in some of the most remote and underserved areas of Meghalaya and the Northeast.”
According to.a CMO statement, Union Minister Rijiju gave a patient hearing to the issues raised and assured the delegation that the concerns would be carefully examined. He further assured that consultations with stakeholders will be undertaken and necessary discussions held before finalising any amendments.
“I am encouraged by Hon’ble Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju ji’s assurance that wider consultations will be held and that stakeholders’ concerns will be duly examined before any final decision is taken,” the chief minister said.
“Our objective is to work constructively with the Government of India to ensure that the law safeguards both national interests and the invaluable contributions of charitable and faith-based institutions,” he added.
The delegation also stressed the importance of incorporating appropriate safeguards in the legislation to ensure continuity of essential services while upholding transparency and accountability. It underscored the need to protect the rights and functioning of faith-based and charitable organisations working for the welfare of communities.
Expressing optimism following the meeting, the chief minister said, “We remain hopeful that through dialogue and engagement, a solution will emerge that protects the rights of organisations while strengthening regulatory mechanisms.”
