Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has defended the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, saying the legislation is aimed at preventing anti-national activities and is not directed against any particular religion.

Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Fadnavis rejected allegations by the Congress that the proposed changes to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act are anti-Christian.

He said the proposed law would apply to all organisations receiving foreign contributions, regardless of their religion, community or background.

Fadnavis Defends Proposed FCRA Changes

Fadnavis said stronger regulation of foreign donations is necessary to ensure that funds coming into India are not used for activities that could harm national interests.

According to him, organisations involved in legitimate social, charitable or community work should not face unnecessary difficulties because of the proposed changes.

He stressed that the legislation is intended to regulate the use of foreign contributions rather than target any specific religious group.

Opposition Raises Concerns Over FCRA Bill

Congress has criticised the proposed FCRA changes and alleged that they could disproportionately affect Christian organisations and faith-based groups.

Fadnavis rejected the allegation and maintained that the rules would be applied uniformly to organisations receiving foreign funds.

The debate comes amid wider scrutiny of how foreign contributions are received and used by non-governmental organisations operating in India.

New FCRA Rules Introduced for Foreign Funds

Earlier, the government notified amended FCRA rules governing organisations that receive foreign contributions.

Under the revised framework, non-governmental organisations are required to select purposes and areas of operation from a predefined list while applying for registration.

The rules continue to permit several faith-based activities. However, proselytisation has been excluded from some categories that can qualify for registration under the FCRA framework.

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FCRA Debate Continues

Foreign funding regulations have remained a politically sensitive issue in India, with the government arguing that tighter oversight is required to prevent misuse of foreign contributions.

Opposition parties and some organisations have raised concerns about the impact of stricter rules on civil society and religious groups.

Fadnavis has maintained that the proposed legislation should be viewed through the lens of national security and financial regulation rather than religion.