Ranchi/New Delhi:M. A. Baby, General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M), has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding the immediate withdrawal of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, expressing serious concerns over its provisions.
In his letter, Baby stated that the Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 26, 2026, contains several stringent provisions that go beyond reasonable regulation and grant excessive powers to the executive. While acknowledging the need to regulate foreign contributions for transparency and national security, he argued that the proposed amendments tilt the balance towards over-centralisation and control.
The CPI(M) leader objected to the provision for a ‘designated authority’ empowered to take over, manage and dispose of the assets of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) whose registrations are suspended, cancelled or not renewed. He termed the provision “draconian” and warned that it poses a serious threat to the functioning and existence of civil society organisations, particularly in the absence of adequate judicial oversight.
The letter also raised concerns over federalism, pointing out that requiring state governments to obtain prior approval from the Centre before initiating any FCRA-related investigation undermines the constitutional balance of power between the Union and the states.
Further, Baby cautioned that the wide discretionary powers granted under the Bill could lead to arbitrary actions, potentially targeting organisations working in areas such as human rights, environmental protection and minority welfare. He also flagged the possible adverse impact on minority institutions, particularly with regard to their autonomy and management of funds.
Criticising the legislative process, CPI(M) said the Bill was introduced without adequate consultation or discussion, despite opposition from several quarters, thereby undermining democratic law-making practices.
The party has urged the government to withdraw the Bill, remove contentious provisions—especially those allowing asset seizure without judicial safeguards—and ensure that any future regulatory framework aligns with constitutional guarantees of freedom of association and expression. It has also called for wider consultations with civil society, minority institutions and legal experts before introducing any amendments.
Concluding the letter, Baby expressed hope for a constructive response from the Prime Minister and called for immediate corrective steps.
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