Kathmandu— India's government is set to introduce the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament without any plans for an extension or special session. The bill seeks to amend the existing FCRA Act, 2010, and includes provisions for a Designated Authority to oversee foreign contributions and assets.

FCRA Amendment Bill's Key Provisions

The amendment bill introduces several key changes. It proposes the creation of a Designated Authority responsible for managing foreign contributions and assets when an organization loses its FCRA registration. If the organization restores or renews its registration within the stipulated period, the authority will return the assets and unused funds. However, if the registration is not renewed, these assets could vest permanently with the authority.

The bill also includes provisions for the cessation of an FCRA certificate upon expiry, non-renewal, or refusal of renewal, addressing how to handle assets in cases where an organization becomes defunct. Additionally, it mandates that places of worship retain their religious character under this new framework.

Impact on Penalties and Oversight

The proposed legislation aims to rationalize penalties for violations of the FCRA Act by reducing the maximum imprisonment from five years to one year. It also requires state agencies to obtain prior approval from the central government before initiating investigations under the FCRA, enhancing centralized oversight.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju told ANI that there are no plans to extend the Monsoon Session or hold a special session for other bills such as Women's Reservation and Delimitation Bills. The monsoon session began on July 20 and is scheduled to conclude on August 13.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.