SHILLONG, AUG 10: Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee president Vincent H. Pala on Monday led a protest at Don Bosco Square, Laitumkhrah, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).
Pala alleged that the BJP-led government was rushing the Bill through Parliament this week.
“This is the first attack after Independence on churches, schools and NGOs that receive foreign funding,” he said.
He described Clause 16(a) as “the most dangerous” provision, alleging that it would allow the government to seize property if an FCRA licence is not renewed or is surrendered.
“If a church or school receives even a small percentage of foreign funds, the whole property can be attached,” Pala alleged.
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The protest was held in an area where several church-run institutions, including St. Anthony’s and St. Edmund’s, operate and rely on FCRA funds.
Pala said these schools and hospitals provide education and healthcare to the poor, and that blocking foreign funding would only increase unemployment and hardship in Meghalaya.
“We are not against transparency. Punish those who misuse funds, not everyone,” he said. “India will be strong only if minorities, churches and NGOs are allowed to work together with the government.”
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Congress workers raised slogans including “BJP down down”, “Resign Modi” and “Resign Amit Shah”.
“This is not about party interest. We are here for the people and for the future of our children,” Pala added.
