Meghalaya opposition protests against FCRA amendments

Opposition parties in Meghalaya have launched protests and voiced concerns regarding proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026.

Initially, the United Democratic Party (UDP) called for a review of the amendments, warning that the changes could negatively impact healthcare, educational, and humanitarian institutions, particularly those managed by religious and minority groups. The UDP advocated for specific protections, such as exemptions for minority institutions and ensuring that disqualification for registration is based only on final court convictions. Concurrently, the Voice of the People Party (VPP) organized a march to the Meghalaya Secretariat, prompting police to enter a state of high alert.

Following these developments, the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee conducted a peaceful protest march in Shillong. Party leaders specifically criticized Clause 16A, expressing fear that the government could seize the entire assets of an organization if its FCRA registration is not renewed, canceled, or surrendered, even if the majority of its funding is sourced locally. While the Congress stated they do not oppose regulation to prevent misuse, they argued the proposed scope exceeds necessary limits.