Shillong, Aug 11: The ruling National People’s Party (NPP) has responded to the opposition Congress criticism casting doubt over the former’s stand on FCRA amendment bill, saying the NPP has already raised concerns over the proposed legislation and different forums.
Following the protest staged by Congress against the move to amend FCRA Act on Tuesday, NPP spokesperson Dr Celestine Lyngdoh said the party has serious reservations, particularly over provisions relating to foreign contributions and the management of assets.
Lyngdoh said Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma had already communicated the state government’s concerns to the Centre on the matter.
He also led a delegation of church leaders to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah in order to express their apprehension about the proposed amendment.
Lyngdoh pointed out that the NPP has advocated specific safeguards or exemptions to ensure that institutions providing essential public services are not disrupted by the proposed changes.
The delegation also highlighted Meghalaya’s distinctive socio-religious landscape and the role played by such institutions in education, healthcare and community welfare.
The Congress had expressed doubt as to what the NPP – an ally of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government led by BJP – will ultimately do when the bill comes before the Parliament.
The FCRA Bill has faced opposition from political parties and civil society groups in different parts of the country.
In Meghalaya, however, the debate carries a particularly local weight because foreign-funded institutions have long played a significant role in providing education, healthcare, social services and community support.
