Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Aizawl: Mizoram's political factions are escalating pressure on the state government to formally fight the proposed Foreign Contribution Regulation Act amendment. The bill, introduced during the Lok Sabha Budget Session, faces a vote in the current Monsoon Session. Critics argue it restricts vital funding for Christian churches, orphanages, and schools.
The Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee wants a special assembly session. They demand an official resolution rejecting the federal changes. Congress general secretary Lalbiakzama insists the state must own the fight. "Rather than using church leaders as a front, the Mizoram Government and our chief minister must take the lead to fulfil the demands of the people," he said.
Congress leaders also criticized the NDA government for using flimsy regulatory grounds to choke off foreign money. They voiced alarm over other national proposals, specifically moves to mandate singing "Vande Mataram" at official events. The party claims that verses praising Hindu deities clash with constitutional religious freedoms.
The Mizo National Front has joined the push. Opposition leader Lalchhandama Ralte urged the state's two MPs to vote against the bill instead of abstaining. Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha representatives belong to the ruling Zoram People's Movement. Zoramthanga, the MNF president, is currently in New Delhi to press the issue.
State officials are preparing a memorandum for the Centre. Congress continues to push for an all-party delegation, including civil society and church groups, to fly to the capital. They held a "Black Day" protest on July 21 to highlight these fears. The clock is ticking on the bill's passage.
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