Aizawl, July 30, 2026: The Council of Churches in Mizoram (CCM) has strongly opposed the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, describing it as a threat to churches and various organisations that depend on foreign contributions for their activities.
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| Council of Churches in Mizoram leaders address a press conference at the Aizawl Press Club on Thursday, announcing their opposition to the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, and calling for a protest march on August 11. |
Addressing a press conference at the Aizawl Press Club on Thursday, leaders of the Council of Churches in Mizoram expressed concern over the proposed amendments, stating that while the Bill contains certain positive provisions, it also includes clauses they believe could have far-reaching consequences for Christian institutions and civil society organisations.
According to the church leaders, the proposed legislation, although intended to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the use of foreign funds, allegedly contains provisions that could empower authorities to take over or seize properties, including church buildings, schools, hospitals, and other assets established with foreign contributions under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
The Council said such provisions were unacceptable and warned that they could adversely affect the functioning and autonomy of churches and non-governmental organisations across the country.
Reaffirming its opposition, the Council of Churches in Mizoram announced that it would continue to resist the proposed legislation and make every effort to prevent the Bill from being passed by Parliament.
As part of its campaign, the Council has called for a peaceful protest march in Aizawl on August 11 to demonstrate public opposition to the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill 2026.
The church body urged citizens, church members, and civil society organisations to participate in the protest and voice their concerns over what it described as legislation that could have serious implications for religious and charitable institutions.
The proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 has sparked debate in several quarters, with supporters arguing it aims to strengthen oversight of foreign funding, while critics contend that certain provisions could restrict the activities and property rights of organisations receiving overseas contributions.
