India rejects US criticism of proposed FCRA amendments, calls it an internal matter
Randhir Jaiswal during MEA Briefing August 7 2026.
New Delhi: The External Affairs Ministry on Friday rejected criticism from a US lawmaker over the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill. It said the proposed legislation is an internal matter for Parliament and added that regulating foreign funding is a practice followed by several countries, including the US.
Responding to questions during the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesman, Randhir Jaiswal, said India had taken note of the comments but maintained that decisions on legislation are an internal matter. He added that many countries, including the US, have legal frameworks to regulate foreign funding.
The remarks came after US congressman, Riley Moore, criticized the proposed amendments, alleging that some provisions could affect churches and religious charities in India and warning that the issue could become a concern in bilateral ties.
As reported earlier by RNA, the proposed FCRA amendments seek to revise the framework governing foreign contributions received by trusts, charities, educational institutions, religious bodies and non-governmental organizations. Among the proposed changes is a provision allowing the centre to appoint a designated authority to manage foreign contributions and related assets if an organization’s FCRA registration is cancelled, surrendered or expires.
Government distances itself from Bangladesh remarks
The MEA also clarified the government’s position on remarks made about Bangladesh at a private media forum.
Jaiswal said the event had been organized entirely by a private media entity without any government involvement. He added that New Delhi does not endorse comments made at the forum, particularly those concerning the duly constituted government of Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka visit and neighbourhood developments
The spokesperson also briefed the media on the recent visit of Vikram Misri, foreign secretary, to Sri Lanka. During the visit, Misri called on Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Sri Lankan president, and Harini Amarasuriya, Sri Lankan prime minister. He also held talks with Vijitha Herath, foreign minister, and Aruni Ranaraja, foreign secretary.
The discussions focused on India’s ongoing development partnership with Sri Lanka, including projects under implementation and rehabilitation efforts launched after the recent cyclone.
Speaking on the broader regional situation, Jaiswal said India continues to closely monitor developments across its neighbourhood and will take all necessary steps to safeguard the country’s national interests.
Maritime security and Africa
Responding to questions on maritime security, Jaiswal urged all parties to refrain from targeting civilian vessels and merchant seafarers. He also stressed on the importance of ensuring uninterrupted commercial shipping through international sea lanes.
He said Indian missions in the Gulf remain in regular contact with the ministry of shipping and local maritime authorities, while round-the-clock helplines continue to assist Indian seafarers.
On Africa, Jaiswal said India remains committed to strengthening its partnership with the continent. He confirmed that the India-Africa Summit had been postponed in consultation with the African Union and would be held on a mutually convenient date. He added that India continues to monitor political developments in the Horn of Africa, including those involving Somalia.
