MARGAO
The Church body, the Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP) and the Catholic Association of Goa (CAG) have jointly appealed to all Catholic elected representatives in the Goa Legislative Assembly to clearly clarify their personal position on the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, and to raise the pressing concerns of Goan civil society during the forthcoming Assembly session.
The proposed legislation introduces a rigorous framework for supervising, managing, and disposing of foreign contributions and assets belonging to organisations whose FCRA registration is cancelled, surrendered, expires, or is not renewed, alongside establishing a Designated Authority with sweeping powers.
While recognising the absolute necessity of transparency and financial accountability, the CSJP and CAG have expressed deep concern that certain provisions—if enacted without stringent safeguards—could severely jeopardise genuine charitable, educational, healthcare, and social-service institutions. For decades, numerous such institutions in Goa have delivered vital assistance to the poor, vulnerable, and marginalised communities irrespective of religion, caste, language, or political affiliation.
The key apprehensions highlighted in the appeal include autonomy and operations, with the two organisations saying there is a risk of excessive or arbitrary administrative powers interfering with the lawful functioning, institutional autonomy, funds, and assets of public-service organisations.
Stressing the principles of natural justice, they said there is an urgent need for any action affecting an organisation's registration or property to be preceded by proper notice, a fair hearing, a reasoned order, and an effective right of appeal.
With the Bill currently referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further review, the associations have urged MLAs to utilise the upcoming Assembly sitting to demand comprehensive stakeholder consultations, ensure robust statutory safeguards against discriminatory actions, and protect institutions dedicated to serving society's disadvantaged sections.
Furthermore, the appeal requests representatives to move or support a private-member resolution urging the Government of India and the Joint Parliamentary Committee to reconsider or suitably amend provisions that may unduly affect legitimate public-service activities.
“The people of Goa look forward to a timely response from their elected representatives regarding the concrete steps they intend to initiate in defence of constitutional safeguards and democratic accountability,” stated Cyril A Fernandes, President, Catholic Association of Goa.
