Kohima: The Nagaland Baptist Church Council wants the FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026, gone. They sent a formal plea to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio this week. The council represents over 748,000 members across 1,626 congregations in the state. They fear the new federal law will strangle humanitarian work. It could cripple schools, health clinics, and disaster relief efforts.
The bill imposes harsh new rules on foreign funding. While the council admits the government has a right to ensure security and transparency, they claim these changes go too far. They argue that foreign money has fueled their mission for over a century. It helps the poor in remote areas where resources are scarce.
Church leaders worry about the future. They believe the amendments could lead to the confiscation of assets if registrations get cancelled. Smaller churches face the heaviest burden under the new plan. The group explicitly noted, "The contribution of the Church to literacy, health, reconciliation, community welfare and social transformation was inseparable from the history and identity of the state."
The Kerala Legislative Assembly already passed a resolution to fight the bill. Now, the NBCC wants the Nagaland government to join the opposition. They urged the Chief Minister to press the Prime Minister and Home Minister for a full withdrawal. They also demanded a seat at the table for any future regulatory talks. The representation was signed by President Rev. Achu Chang, General Secretary Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, and Secretary Dr. Villo Naleo.
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