Kathmandu— The Union Government is set to discuss the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, in Parliament on August 12. The bill has faced significant objections from Christian organizations and minority groups, as well as political opposition. A delegation met with Home Minister Amit Shah to express their concerns and demand changes or withdrawal of the legislation.

Christian Groups' Concerns

A high-level delegation representing various Christian denominations and charitable institutions formally registered their opposition to the FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026. They demanded either a complete withdrawal of the bill or its referral to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further scrutiny. The memorandum submitted highlighted that the proposed legislation could lead to automatic cessation of certificates due to minor technical non-compliances and result in asset vesting, threatening minority-run institutions.

Political Opposition

Congress MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy accused the government of steamrolling dissent using its numbers in the House. The political opposition has tied their objection to broader demands, including a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah regarding police action against student protesters on July 20 at Jantar Mantar. Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge renewed his demand for Shah's presence in Parliament.

Parliamentary Proceedings

Despite disruptions, Parliament completed some legislative business on Thursday. The Appropriation (No. 3) Bill, 2026, was passed by the Rajya Sabha to regularise excess expenditure of Rs 54,067.46 crore incurred during the financial year ended March 31, 2023. Additionally, the Lok Sabha passed the 'Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026', which seeks to amend several tax laws.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.