Kochi, The Catholic Bishops' body, KCBC, on Saturday urged the Centre to address concerns arising from the recent amendments to the FCRA, while welcoming its efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilisation of foreign funds.
In a statement, the Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC) said it fully respects and supports the Centre's objective of amending the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules (FCRA) to prevent the misuse of foreign contributions and ensure transparency in their utilisation.
"However, the recent amendments, including restrictions on the number of operational sectors and the prescription of minimum expenditure requirements, could create uncertainty over the future of many voluntary organisations," it said.
The council also expressed concern that some of the amended provisions could affect the constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and freedom of expression.
"Our institutions and organisations remain committed to nation-building and social welfare in full compliance with the country's laws," the statement said.
The KCBC said it would continue discussions with the Centre to ensure that "necessary changes are made so that organisations and institutions functioning transparently and with genuine intent can continue their activities without hindrance." "We fully respect and support the Centre's objective of preventing the misuse of foreign funds and ensuring transparency and accountability in their utilisation," it added.
Congress and CPI(M) had criticised the FCRA amendment as targeting minority communities.
While the BJP ruled out the allegation, claiming that it is relevant to all organisations associated with all communities that received foreign funds
