Shillong: Shillong All Faith Forum president Bishop Purely Lyngdoh officially welcomed the federal government's decision to send the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, to a Joint Parliamentary Committee. The move follows intense pressure from opposition parties and regional stakeholders. The 31-member panel received the referral on August 12. This action happened one day before the Monsoon Session ended.
Church and civil society groups across the Northeast fear the bill threatens the autonomy of institutions relying on foreign aid. Lyngdoh stated the forum hopes that “something positive” will emerge from the parliamentary review process. These concerns stem from fears that new rules will hurt minority institutions and Christian organizations throughout the region.
A delegation led by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on July 5. They delivered a formal memorandum requesting changes. Shah promised that his ministry would talk with stakeholders before moving forward. Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Lahkmen Rymbui also flagged specific issues. Rymbui specifically objects to rules allowing officials to seize property over minor licensing delays. He also slammed the plan to extend personal liability beyond an organization's board members.
Stakeholders now look to the JPC for relief. They want a hard look at the bill's regulatory scope. The committee provides a formal stage for Northeastern groups to air their grievances. Everyone is waiting for the outcome.
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